“A Hero Can Be Typecast, Not an Actor”: Nawazuddin Siddiqui Speaks His Mind

Acclaimed actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for redefining acting in contemporary Indian cinema, says he carries no insecurity, no fear, and no creative limitations—even after a career spanning over 26 years. Currently in the spotlight for his OTT release Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, Nawazuddin has once again proven why he is considered one of the most versatile performers of his generation.

In an exclusive interaction, the 51-year-old actor made a striking observation:

“A hero can be typecast, but an actor cannot.”

Acting, Not Stardom, Defines Success

From Gangs of Wasseypur and Sacred Games to Manto, Manjhi: The Mountain Man, and even light-hearted roles like the journalist in Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Nawazuddin has effortlessly transformed himself across genres and characters. Reflecting on his journey, he said material success was never his priority.

“Money, cars, or a dream house never defined success for me,” he remarked. “My entire world revolves around acting. Success for me is when a scene turns out exactly as the director and I envisioned it. That moment is priceless.”

On Typecasting and Creative Freedom

Despite portraying gangsters, policemen, serial killers, and historical figures, Nawazuddin insists he was never boxed into a single image. According to him, typecasting is a tragedy that affects ‘heroes’, not actors.

“Actors are fortunate. One day you play a cop, the next day a gangster. That freedom is our biggest strength,” he said, adding that audience expectations often restrict heroes from experimenting, while actors enjoy creative liberty.

Returning as Inspector Jatil Yadav

In Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, Nawazuddin reprises his role as Inspector Jatil Yadav. While returning to a familiar character might seem easy, the actor disagrees.

“This time the case is far more complex. Every film, every role must start from zero,” he explained. “Thinking that it’s easy because you’ve played it before is the biggest mistake an actor can make.”

He credited director Honey Trehan for reimagining the character and infusing freshness into the sequel.

Experience Must Not Become Ego

Despite decades of experience, Nawazuddin believes an actor must approach every film with a blank slate.

“You cannot carry experience on your forehead,” he said metaphorically. “On set, you must believe you know nothing. Only then can the director write something new on you.”

Comparing acting to cricket, he added, “A century is made ball by ball. Cinema works the same way—every film demands a fresh beginning.”

No Insecurity, Only Gratitude

Asked whether he ever feels insecure as an actor, Nawazuddin answered with rare clarity and humility.

“No. I’ve received more than I ever imagined. I’ve been part of films an actor can be proud of. When you get such opportunities, you have no reason to complain.”

What’s Next

The coming year looks promising for Nawazuddin Siddiqui, with three films lined up for 2026—Section 108, Noorani Chehra, and Sangeen—each expected to showcase yet another shade of his acting brilliance.

In an industry often driven by image and stardom, Nawazuddin Siddiqui stands firm as a reminder that true actors are never confined—only constantly evolving.