Nawazuddin Siddiqui on his early days: "I quit my factory job and started doing theatre"

Acclaimed actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui recently opened up about how his early life experiences as a science student and factory worker played a crucial role in shaping his acting career.
In a conversation with IANS, he shared that his journey into the world of theatre began when someone introduced him to it. Inspired, he left his job at a chemical factory and dived into theatre full-time, starting with Gujarati plays.
Theatre Training Without Distractions
Reflecting on his theatre days, Siddiqui expressed gratitude for growing up in an era without the distractions of the internet. “We would practice theatre during our free time instead of being glued to our phones, which is something you don’t see today,” he shared. His initial years were filled with small roles in Gujarati plays before he transitioned to Hindi theatre, training in Lucknow and later at the prestigious National School of Drama in Delhi.
Russian Influence and the First Serious Role
A turning point in Siddiqui’s career came when renowned Russian theatre director Valentine Tapley (also referred to as Balentine Taplico) visited NSD. Siddiqui recalled how Tapley cast actors just by looking into their eyes, giving him his first serious role. The experience introduced him to method acting, which significantly refined his approach to performance.
Upcoming Projects: Raat Akeli Hai 2 & More
On the work front, Nawazuddin Siddiqui is gearing up for multiple projects. He will be seen in Raat Akeli Hai 2, the sequel to his 2020 thriller Raat Akeli Hai, marking his second collaboration with director Honey Trehan. He is also playing the lead in Costao, a film based on the life of customs officer Costao Fernandez. Additionally, Siddiqui is set to star in the Indian adaptation of the popular American medical drama House, which will stream on OTT.