Amid Rajpal Yadav’s Imprisonment, Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Old Tribute Highlights Their Bond and His Generosity
Actor Rajpal Yadav was sent to Tihar Jail on February 4 after being sentenced in connection with a ₹9 crore cheque dishonour case.
As news of his surrender spread, voices from the film fraternity expressed concern and solidarity.
Around the same time, an earlier interview of Nawazuddin Siddiqui resurfaced, shedding light on their long-standing friendship and Rajpal’s lesser-known acts of kindness during their early struggling days.
In a June 2024 conversation with The Lallantop, Nawazuddin reflected on their journey together, recalling that both he and Rajpal trained at the Bharatendu Natya Academy in Lucknow before pursuing further studies at the National School of Drama in New Delhi.
Speaking candidly, Nawazuddin remarked that they underwent nearly five years of formal acting education, humorously adding that academically, they were among the most trained actors in the industry despite appearances.
He also described Rajpal as a deeply compassionate individual who extended unwavering support to fellow actors during their formative years in Mumbai. According to Nawazuddin, once Rajpal began receiving steady work, he opened his home to those struggling to make ends meet.
Meals were freely shared, and his residence became a refuge for artists in need. Nawazuddin likened Rajpal’s home to a “langar” — a communal kitchen where anyone could walk in and find sustenance.
Behind his comic persona, he said, Rajpal possesses a sensitive and generous heart.
The legal troubles confronting Rajpal date back to 2010, when he reportedly secured a loan of ₹5 crore to finance his directorial venture, Ata Pata Laapata.
The film’s poor commercial performance left him unable to repay the amount, which over time ballooned to ₹9 crore with accrued interest and penalties.
After exhausting legal remedies, the Delhi High Court dismissed his final plea seeking relief from imprisonment and directed him to surrender.
Before reporting to Tihar Jail on February 5, Rajpal addressed the media in an emotional statement, expressing his financial distress and sense of isolation.
He acknowledged that he lacked the resources to settle the dues and felt compelled to face the consequences alone.
Following his incarceration, several industry figures, including Sonu Sood and Gurmeet Choudhary, have reportedly stepped forward to offer assistance.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also urged members of the film and television community to extend support to the actor during this challenging period.
As the legal process unfolds, the resurfaced interview has reminded many of Rajpal Yadav’s generosity and the bonds forged in the early, uncertain years of struggle — a narrative that stands in poignant contrast to his present circumstances.
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