Nawazuddin Siddiqui, a name synonymous with versatility and compelling performances in Indian cinema, celebrates his 51st birthday on May 19, 2025. From humble beginnings in Budhana, Uttar Pradesh, to becoming one of Bollywood's most sought-after actors, his journey is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Siddiqui's career is marked by a diverse range of roles that have showcased his ability to transform into any character. He started with minor roles, including appearances in Sarfarosh (1999), Shool (1999), and Munna Bhai M.B.B.S (2003). However, his breakthrough came with Anurag Kashyap's Black Friday (2004), which paved the way for more substantial roles.
One of his most iconic performances is undoubtedly Faizal Khan in Gangs of Wasseypur (2012). His portrayal of a young man seeking revenge in the ruthless world of gang warfare was mesmerizing. From a timid son to a feared gangster, Siddiqui captured the essence of a man caught between innocence and brutality. Other notable roles that solidified his position in the industry include his portrayal of a journalist in Peepli Live (2010) and his performance in Kahaani (2012) as IB Officer A. Khan.
Siddiqui has delivered unforgettable performances across various genres. In Manjhi: The Mountain Man, he played Dashrath Manjhi, a determined villager who carved a path through a mountain, showcasing resilience and humanity. His role as a transgender character in Haddi was groundbreaking, demonstrating his commitment to portraying complex characters with authenticity. He played the sharp and witty cop Jaideep Majmudar in Raees, delivering a standout performance. His role as Shiv Gajra in Kick showcased his ability to portray an intimidating villain with finesse. Other notable roles include Aslam Shaikh in The Lunchbox, Ganesh Gaitonde in Sacred Games, and Raman Raghav in Raman Raghav 2.0.
His talent has not gone unnoticed, earning him numerous accolades, including a National Film Award and two Filmfare Awards. He is also the only actor to have eight films officially selected and screened at the Film Festival Junction.
As of May 2025, Siddiqui remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry with several exciting projects on the horizon. He recently starred in Costao (2025), a crime drama inspired by the life of a custom officer. He has also wrapped up shooting for Raat Akeli Hai 2 and is currently filming an upcoming project in Thailand. His upcoming movies include Thama, a horror-comedy alongside Sanjay Dutt, Rashmika Mandanna, and Ayushmann Khurrana, which is slated for release in October 2025. Other projects include Section 108, Bole Chudiyan, and Noorani Chehra.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui's journey from a small-town boy to a celebrated actor is an inspiration to many. His dedication to his craft, his ability to embody diverse characters, and his commitment to meaningful storytelling have cemented his place as one of the finest actors in Indian cinema. As he turns 51, fans eagerly anticipate his upcoming projects and the new dimensions he will bring to his roles.
