I Envy Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Talent, I Wish I Was As Good As Nawazuddin When I Was Younger : Naseeruddin Shah

By

Tanveer Zaidi  (Actor-Author-Educationist)

Nawazuddin Siddiqui is widely regarded as one of the finest actors in the Hindi film industry due to his versatility, dedication to his craft, and ability to portray a wide range of characters, from intense, complex roles to nuanced portrayals of ordinary individuals.

He has consistently delivered memorable performances, earning him critical acclaim and recognition for his talent.

Nawazuddin is known for his ability to transform into different characters, whether he’s a ruthless criminal, a sensitive individual, or a complex, psychologically challenging persona. He has demonstrated his versatility through roles in films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Kahaani, Raman Raghav 2.0, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and Mom.

Nawaz is also praised for his intense preparation and commitment to his roles. He often immerses himself in the character’s mindset, earning him respect and admiration from both audiences and fellow actors.

Nawazuddin has a natural, unpretentious acting style that allows him to connect with audiences on a deeper level. His ability to portray emotions and complexities without overacting has been praised by critics, the film fraternity, and filmgoers.

He is a self-made star who overcame challenges and hardship to reach the top. His journey from a small town in Uttar Pradesh to a leading actor in Bollywood is a testament to his determination and talent. He is thankful to Salman Khan, who gave him an important role in Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which gave Nawazuddin an international exposure.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has received numerous accolades for his performances, including a National Film Award, an IIFA Award, and two Filmfare Awards.

Naseeruddin Shah, an institution in himself and been highly respected actor, has publicly praised Nawazuddin Siddiqui, even stating, ” I Envy Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s talent and wish I was as good as Nawazuddin Siddiqui when I was younger.”

In essence, Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s combination of talent, dedication, versatility, and a natural acting style has solidified his reputation as one of the finest actors in the Indian film Industry.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has often spoken about the importance of talent and the limitations of the Bollywood industry, particularly in how it often prioritizes looks over skill.

He has spoken,  ” I believe our film industry should value actors for their ability to portray a wide range of characters, rather than limiting them to specific types or roles, but that’s how Bollywood works and the masses appreciate.”

 He has also expressed, ” I prefer working with directors who can utilize my  talent effectively, I am more concerned with the impact of my films than their box-office performance.”

Nawazuddin has criticized the Bollywood industry, he says, ” I dislike film fraternity valuing looks over talent, but we see  international film industries value talent and they chose actors  based on their skill, I think Bollywood’ film-makers are scared of loosing their hard earned money, they can’t afford to take risk.”

Nawazuddin says, ” I want to avoid being pigeonholeed into specific roles. I believe that an actor’s weakness is the limitations they put on themselves.”

Nawazuddin Siddiqui tells, ” I am eager to take on roles that push my boundaries and allow me to showcase my versatility.”

He emphasizes the importance of working with technicians who can utilize an actor’s potential and give them challenging tasks.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui says, ” I’d rather shoot myself than be a superstar with one-dimensional acting. I always prefer to experiment with the method of natural acting.”

Nawaz says, ” I view acting as a fundamental skill that can be practiced in various settings, including on the streets or in local trains.”

He further says, ” I believe in enhancing oneself to a point where money and fame become servants rather than the other way around.”