EP-211 | Struggles to Stardom in Bollywood: Nawazuddin Siddiqui's Raw Confessions

Nawazuddin Siddiqui is a prominent Indian actor recognized for his contributions to Hindi cinema. He has delivered notable performances in films like Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), The Lunchbox (2013), Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016), and Manto (2018) among others. His work has earned him significant acclaim, with eight of his films being showcased at the Cannes Film Festival. Nawazuddin has also received several prestigious awards, including a National Film Award, a Filmfare Award, and two Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

In this episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, Nawazuddin Siddiqui opens up about his journey in Bollywood, sharing the struggles he faced in getting roles and how people often doubted he would ever become a hero. The acclaimed actor also talks about the challenges his films face in securing screenings and his interest in producing movies in the future. Nawaz also reflects on his experiences working on the cult classic role of Faizal Khan in Gangs of Wasseypur and shares how he met with followers of the 'real' Faizal Khan to perfect the role. He also offers his perspective on why the second season of Sacred Games fell short of audience expectations.

In this candid interview, Nawazuddin Siddiqui shares his thoughts on the actors and directors who inspire him. He discusses the contrast between commercial and artistic films in Bollywood and how conflict often influences art. He also reflects on his rural upbringing and his mother's reaction to seeing him on the big screen.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:20) Nawazuddin's Definition of Success

(08:40) Nawazuddin's Cinema & Struggles

(16:55) NSD Days

(21:55) Commercial Cinema vs. Alternate Cinema

(26:44) Film Promotions

(28:25) Conflict Reflects in Art

(30:23) Rural Background

(31:39) Gangs of Wasseypur

(36:02) Nawaz's Favourites

(42:17) Films That Impacted Nawazuddin Siddiqui

(43:19) Small Roles

(45:34) Favourite Co-Actors

(46:44) Sacred Games

(51:52) Unexplored Human Emotions in Performance

(55:57) Upcoming Projects

(01:00:50) Family's Role in Life

(01:02:13) Nawaz's Love for Desert

(01:03:52) New Filmmakers That Inspire