Anurag Kashyap and I are not even friends: Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Actor maintains filmmaker is close to his heart

In the often fickle world of filmmaking, relationships between actors and directors rarely extend beyond the professional realm. Recently, Anurag Kashyap revealed in an interview that celebrity designers had refused to make a suit for Nawazuddin Siddiqui for the 2012 Cannes Directors' Fortnight, where their film "Gangs of Wasseypur" was being screened, due to Siddiqui's appearance.

Reflecting on this, Siddiqui shared his thoughts on Kashyap's significance in his career, spanning over 25 years. Despite the hurt caused by such rejections, Siddiqui expressed gratitude for the recognition of his talent and the love he now receives from audiences. Speaking to Indian Express, he recalled, "Of course, I was hurt that people have that kind of approach to an actor. I felt strange." He emphasised that it was Kashyap who introduced him to a broader platform and opened doors to international acclaim.

The actor acknowledged, "With time people saw my work and started appreciating it. If your work is good, people will appreciate it, thanks to Anurag Kashyap who introduced me to a big platform. When I went to Cannes, there were so many people who had seen my work. A lot of the films that he has directed and I have acted in, have gone to Cannes, so Anurag is a special director for me.”

Despite their limited personal interaction, Siddiqui holds Kashyap in high regard. He recounted their unique dynamic, saying, “Anurag and I are not even friends, frankly speaking. If we sit together we might not even talk to each other for hours. We are like that."

He further shared, "We have flown together, traveled together for 5-6 hours without saying a word, maybe we’ll ask if you have matchsticks, or come, let’s eat something or drink. We only discuss these things. We don’t talk much. But Anurag has a special place in my heart. I always want him to be healthy and make films even if he doesn’t cast me in them. Anurag should always keep making films. Anurag should never have any problems.”

Siddiqui also spoke on Kashyap's resilience during challenging times, mentioning how both he and actor Taapsee Pannu supported Kashyap through his battles with depression and alcohol addiction. Despite their quiet camaraderie, Siddiqui’s respect for Kashyap is profound.

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