Naseeruddin Shah, a name synonymous with brilliance in acting, has an uncanny ability to embody every character with remarkable depth and subtlety. His voice, too, has become an instrument of storytelling, making even the most ordinary of dialogues unforgettable. Whether as D.K. Malhotra in Masoom, Bhola in Manthan, or the Common Man in A Wednesday!, his characters resonate with authenticity, making them stand the test of time.
In a recent interview, Shah reflected on his journey, acknowledging the pivotal role Shyam Benegal played in shaping his career. He credited Benegal for casting him in revolutionary films like Manthan, Bhumika, and Junoon when no one else was willing to take a chance on him. Shah expressed deep affection for Benegal, calling him a guiding force in his life.
Shah’s reverence for his craft extends beyond Bollywood. When he visited Kerala for the Kerala Literature Festival, he spoke of the state’s unique love for literature and the arts. He expressed admiration for the educated and theatre-savvy populace, admiring their intellectual engagement with the arts.
Interestingly, Shah also shared his experience working in Malayalam cinema. Though his appearance in Ponthan Mada with T.V. Chandran was challenging, especially as he grappled with the language, Shah fondly remembered working with Malayalam cinema icons like Mammootty. He praised Mammootty’s approach to stardom, emphasizing that despite his fame, he didn’t let it overshadow his craft. Shah observed that both Mammootty and Mohanlal, two of Malayalam cinema’s biggest stars, have been instrumental in supporting parallel cinema, allowing newcomers to flourish in an environment of artistic collaboration. He wished Hindi cinema stars would follow suit and extend their reach beyond self-propagation, participating in meaningful and smaller-budget films that deserve a wider audience.
Shah’s reflections offer a glimpse into the thought process of an actor who has transcended the limits of commercial cinema to become an icon of meaningful storytelling. His unwavering commitment to his craft continues to inspire countless filmmakers and actors alike.
