Adarsh Gourav Reflects on ‘The White Tiger’ and the Unwavering Support of Co-Stars

The actor discusses his transformative role and the invaluable assistance from Priyanka Chopra and Rajkummar Rao.

Adarsh Gourav, acclaimed for his portrayal of Balram Halwai in the 2021 film The White Tiger, has garnered international recognition, including a BAFTA nomination. The film, an adaptation of Aravind Adiga’s 2008 novel, also features Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Rajkummar Rao.​

In a candid interview, Gourav expressed profound gratitude towards his co-stars for their unwavering support during challenging times. He remarked, “I will always owe that to both Raj bhai and Priyanka. They stood when times were hard.”​

Gourav’s journey to embodying Balram was immersive. He relocated to a village in Jharkhand, living anonymously to understand the socio-economic backdrop of his character. He also worked at a tea stall in Delhi, earning ₹100 a day, to experience the hardships faced by individuals like Balram. These experiences deepened his understanding of the character’s struggles and aspirations.

Reflecting on the film’s impact, Gourav acknowledged that The White Tiger was pivotal in his career. He stated, “The White Tiger really put me on the map.” The film’s success opened doors to international opportunities, including a role in the Apple TV series Extrapolations.​

Despite the acclaim, Gourav remains grounded. He candidly discussed the challenges of securing roles and enduring periods without work. While acknowledging that these times tested his patience, he emphasized his gratitude for the opportunities he’s had, stating that even if he never worked again, he would still consider himself fortunate.​

Gourav’s story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the profound impact of collaborative support in the film industry.