“I told myself I will prove my worth...

NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI,46

Jibes about his dark complexion and appearance by kids his age and his relatives, plus his father’s financial struggles, drove the actor to do something “special”. With several hits under his belt, he has achieved his goal

Growing up, Nawazuddin Siddiqui was seen as an anomaly in Budhana, a village in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. While most preferred to watch starring Pankaj Kapur and Shabana Azmi made a profound impression on him. “I remember watching it and deciding that whatever field I am in, I will innovate and have a sense of curiosity,” says Siddiqui. They were also leagues apart from the “C grade cinema” which played in Budhana’s only hall—a makeshift tin-covered property by the river.