From Taxi Driver to Acclaimed Actor: ‘The Dirty Picture’ Marked His Big Break

New Delhi: Today, Rajesh Sharma is counted among those Bollywood and OTT actors who breathe life into every character they portray. Whether it is a comedic, emotional, or negative role, Rajesh Sharma consistently wins the audience’s hearts with his powerful acting. However, his success did not come overnight; he endured a long struggle and faced many difficult phases in life to reach where he is today.

Supporting the Family by Driving a Taxi and Operating a Ferry
Rajesh Sharma was born in Punjab, but he spent his childhood and completed his education in Kolkata. He had a passion for acting from a young age. However, to pursue his dreams, he had to take up various odd jobs. According to reports, he once drove a taxi and operated a ferry (boat service) to make ends meet. Amidst all this, he never gave up on theatre. Later, he underwent acting training at the National School of Drama. The lessons learned in theatre eventually became his greatest strength.

First Break with Gulzar’s Film
Rajesh Sharma made his Bollywood debut in 1996 with renowned filmmaker Gulzar’s movie Maachis. Although the film received great acclaim, it did not bring him immediate recognition. Work became scarce, and financial troubles mounted. Consequently, he returned to Kolkata and continued working steadily in Bengali films and television. Gradually, his hard work paid off, and he carved a distinct niche for himself in the industry. Rajesh Sharma has portrayed many memorable characters throughout his career. Some of his notable films and web series include Khosla Ka Ghosla, The Dirty Picture, Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, and Paatal Lok. However, in the early stages of his career, he also had to work in ‘B-grade’ films like BA Pass. Even though he rarely plays the lead role in films, his acting always leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

Keeping his personal life away from the limelight
Rajesh Sharma has always kept his personal life away from the media. Reports indicate that he was first married to Bengali actress Sudipta Chakraborty, but the couple divorced in 2009. He subsequently married Sangeeta Sharma in 2011; she, too, prefers to stay out of the limelight.

Fans concerned about his health
Recently, news emerged that Rajesh Sharma’s health suddenly deteriorated following an insect bite, leading to his hospitalization in West Bengal. According to reports, his condition is said to be serious. Following this news, fans and many in the film industry have prayed for his speedy recovery. It is reported that the All India Cine Workers Association has also demanded a thorough investigation into the matter. However, as of the time of writing, there has been no official statement regarding his health from Rajesh Sharma or his family.