Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his compelling performances in films like Gangs of Wasseypur and Raman Raghav 2.0, recently sat down with Filmfare for an in-depth conversation on In the Ring with Filmfare. The discussion delved into his journey from theatre to cinema, the nuances of on-screen acting, and his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Addressing the question of why he hasn’t returned to theatre in Mumbai, despite his roots in stage acting, Siddiqui explained, “It’s not about money. If it were, I could have set up a sugar factory in my village and arranged everything. When I came to Mumbai in 2000, I struggled for 10 years. After that, the culture of doing theatre within me diminished. Theatre requires immense passion and extensive rehearsals. I can’t just memorise a script at home and perform after a few days of rehearsal. I need two to three months, maybe even four to five months, to immerse myself fully.”
As Siddiqui continues to captivate audiences with his nuanced performances, his reflections on the art of acting serve as a testament to his dedication and versatility. Whether on stage or on screen, his commitment to authenticity remains unwavering. He is also filming Raat Akeli Hai 2, reprising his role as Inspector Jatil Yadav.