Who is Rajan Velu?
I’m a Western Sydney-based actor who has worked across theatre, film and television in Australia and the United States for many years. I’m passionate about representation in the arts and the ability of stories to make people and communities feel seen and heard. But above all, I’m a Dad – and that’s the best role I’ve had to date.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Let things go a little more. Not hold on so tightly. I think I’ve learnt that sometimes you just have to trust the journey, accept that you can’t control everything, and let things unfold.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m a huge tennis fan and have always been inspired by Roger Federer. I admire his discipline, humility, simple approach to life, and care for people.
He once mentioned that despite winning around 80% of his matches, he won only about 54% of the points he played. That remarkable stat has stayed with me and been a reminder that perfection is a myth. You lose a point, you let it go, reset and focus on the next one.
I think that’s a particularly important lesson in the arts, where there are plenty of missed auditions, roles and opportunities. You can’t dwell on them – you learn, let go and move on to the next one.
His generosity and ongoing work supporting disadvantaged communities also inspires me. Excellence, resilience, humility and giving back – that’s what I admire about him.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d like to continue using art to tell stories that make a difference – stories that remind us of how connected we all are and break down the barriers that people use to divide us
I try to bring that philosophy into my everyday life, particularly with my kids. They’re the next generation, and I believe they have the opportunity to break some of the cycles that humanity has been stuck in for generations. If I can play even a small part in that, that would mean a lot to me.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Lake Tahoe in California. I absolutely love the serenity of the place and being surrounded by nature and that beautiful, vast lake. It’s equally spectacular in winter and summer, and I always feel an incredible sense of peace when I’m there. If I could have a holiday home anywhere in the world, it would be Lake Tahoe!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I always take friends to the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. They’re iconic Australian landmarks known all over the world, and I never get tired of seeing them. Plus, I genuinely think Sydney has the best harbour in the world. I might be biased, but I’m happy to stand by that!
What are you currently reading?
Gather up your World in One Long Breath, a memoir by playwright and director S. Shakthidharan. It’s beautifully written and a really compelling read. I’ve also had the privilege of working with Shakthi, so there’s something particularly special about getting to know more about his life and the experiences that have shaped his storytelling.
What are you currently listening to?
I have a pretty eclectic taste in music, so I enjoy all sorts of styles, but at the moment I’m very much into my ’80s and ’90s playlists. And it’s not just English-language music – I also love going back to the Tamil and Hindi songs from Indian cinema that I grew up listening to. There’s something really nostalgic and joyful about the music from those decades.
Happiness is?
My little girl! Honestly, nothing comes close.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully, new adventures and lots of surprises – I want to keep pushing myself, seeing more of the world and, most importantly, telling stories that move people, challenge perspectives and stay with them long after the curtain falls.
Rajan can be seen in The Jungle and the Sea – by S. Shakthidharan and Eamon Flack – currently playing at the Southbank Theatre, The Sumner, until 15 September 2026. For more information, visit: www.mtc.com.au for details.
Image: Rajan Velu (supplied)