Don’t make idols out of actors: Nawazuddin

Bollywood star says the primary job of artists is to entertain

With award-winning films including Gangs of Wasseypur, Badlapur, Bajrangi, Bhaijaan and Manto to his credit, Nawazuddin Siddiqui has undoubtedly emerged as one of the powerhouse performers of Bollywood.

His recent release Thackeray, however, received a mixed response. In a recent appearance on Arbaaz Khan’s show Pinch, the actor read and responded to a few nasty tweets regarding his role, reported The Indian Express.

The B-town star was slammed for playing Shiv Sena supremo, Balasaheb Thackeray, in the film.

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Speaking about his character, Nawazuddin said, “I can only say I am an actor and I will do all sort of roles. Many liberals have questioned me for taking up this role. I won’t explain to them because they are intelligent people but what do I explain to those who are not smart enough?”
He continued, “A few of my friends questioned me and my only answer to them was that I’m an actor and since 30 years, I am only thinking, reading, breathing and living acting. I have never done anything beyond that. So, no matter what character comes my way, I will do it. If you are judging me for the characters I play then I
have also portrayed Ganesh Gaitonde, who was weirder.”

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI

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The 44-year-old feels this is the time to explore and experiment in Indian cinema.

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“Today, I might be playing a saint and tomorrow a gangster. I want to play every sort of character. I think people should leave all these characters in the theaters. They should take a film as a film and a character just as a character,” he shared.

Meanwhile, he believes people should not look up to actors or make them their idols.

“You can take inspiration from my struggles but do not make me an idol because as an actor, I will do all sort of roles. Actors are meant to entertain. One should make idols out of people who have contributed to society in bigger ways,” concluded Nawazuddin.

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