Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma recently disclosed that he had first offered the role of Malik in his 2002 gangster drama Company to Shah Rukh Khan. However, after a single meeting with the actor, Varma decided to cast Ajay Devgn instead. Ram Gopal Varma reveals Shah Rukh Khan was first choice for Company before casting Ajay Devgn In an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Varma explained, My first instinct was to cast Shah Rukh Khan. I went and narrated the story to him, and he was interested. But I somehow felt Shah Rukh has this natural body language, very energetic, hes like a live wire. The idea of Maliks character was that of a subtle guy, laid-back and cold-minded when hes thinking. I thought SRKs natural energy would go against that. To make Shah Rukh still would be an injustice to both him and the film. Varma further emphasized the difference in acting styles, stating, I think theres a performing actor and then theres an actor. Im not saying one is better than the other, but its just a different style of acting. A guy like Shah Rukh should be left to himself. I think directors trying to make him fit into a different kind of character wont work. But Ajay was naturally suited for that role, hes very calm. Thats when I decided to cast Ajay instead. I just had one meeting with SRK, and in that itself I realised it wouldnt work, but I didnt tell him. Following his decision, Varma contacted Devgn immediately after leaving Khans residence and finalized him for the role. The film also featured Vivek Oberoi, who was cast as Chandru after Abhishek Bachchan, Varmas initial choice, was unavailable due to other commitments. Company , which was the second installment in Varmas gangster trilogy, was both a critical and commercial success. It grossed Rs 25.02 crores against a budget of Rs 9.5 crores and marked Mohanlals debut in Hindi cinema. Ram Gopal Varma is gearing up to collaborate once again with Manoj Bajpayee for their next project, a horror comedy titled Police Station Mein Bhoot.Announcing the film, RGV shared an intriguing line, We run to the police when scared, but where will the police run to when they get scared? After a deadly encounter killing, a police station becomes a haunted station, making all the cops run in fear to escape the ghosts of the gangsters. The story revolves around a police station that turns haunted after a deadly encounter, forcing the officers to flee from the vengeful spirits of slain gangsters. Details about the films release and additional cast members are yet to be revealed.

Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui is set to take on a new role in the upcoming heist film Faraar , where he will portray a physics professor. According to HT City, this marks a departure from his previous roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Joining him in this venture is Hollywood actor Ilia Volok, known for his performances in Mission Impossible , G.I. Joe , and Indiana Jones , who will play the antagonist. Nawazuddin Siddiqui teams up with Mission Impossible star Ilia Volok for heist thriller Faraar: Report Directed by Kushagra Sharma, Faraar aims to redefine the portrayal of villains in cinema. He shared, Casting Ilia Volok opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui was a creative decision driven by the desire to reintroduce the essence of a powerful, layered villain while breaking away from conventional portrayals. As cinema becomes increasingly global, it is essential to bring together two performers who embody depth, intensity, and authenticity. He added, Nawazuddin Siddiquis brilliance on screen demands an equally compelling counterpart, and Ilia Volok brings that rare combination of gravitas and unpredictability. Also, with the Money Heist composers crafting the background score, audiences can expect a sound that takes the thrill to the next level, turning the film into a true big-screen experience thats meant to be felt as much as its watched. The film also features Nimisha Sajayan, known for her role in Dabba Cartel , and boasts a background score composed by Ivan Lacamara, the Spanish composer famed for his work on Money Heist. This collaboration is expected to elevate the film's intensity and provide a gripping auditory experience. The film is currently in production, with more details expected to be released in the coming months.

Guneet Monga had a wonderful conversation with Karan Johar about the production aspects, taking Indian films to a global level and a lot more. One of her biggest breakthrough films was The Lunchbox (2013), starring the late Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Nimrat Kaur. Guneet explained how she raised money for the film and how Karan Johar came on board. Guneet Monga reveals Karan Johar gave The Lunchbox its GAME-CHANGING headline; says He spent Rs. 6.50 cr on P&A for our Rs. 10 cr indie filmhelped us get 500 screens Guneet Monga said, A lot of credit for The Lunchbox working in India goes to Dharma Productions for their genuine marketing. When it was being made, I was told, Isko kaun dekhega ?. Earlier, it was a Rs. 10 crore budget film. Raising such an amount was difficult in India. When we raised Rs. 5.50 crores in France and Germany, the project became commercially viable. I was able to recover the balance Rs. 4.50 crores through MG within 48 hours of the Cannes premiere! Indias rights were yet to be sold, but its collections were going to be a bonus. She revealed, I reached out to Karan. He was also in Cannes for the premiere of Bombay Talkies (2013). I saw him having a meal. I introduced myself; this was my first meeting with him. I told him, You are the master of love stories and I feel I have made a beautiful love story. Its broken out here in Cannes. We have sold the rights of the world. Would you please watch it?. Thats how our friendship began. He gave me his number and asked me to show him the film in India. Guneet continued, Once I returned to India, his film Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) had been released. A week later, he saw the film and loved it. He walked out and gave us the films tagline Can you fall in love with somebody you have never met? Then he called me to his office and asked me, What do you need?. I said, A big release. We have done 100 screen releases and we can do that. I want a 500 screen plus release. Guneet Monga further said, He then called up UTV Motion Pictures. He even put in Rs. 6.50 crores of P&A. That was huge money for a film like this. It was still a film with no songs, had dialogues in English etc. That question of Kaun aayega dekhne was valid even then. However, I feel we judge our audiences a lot. At another point in the interview, Guneet also explained how she raised money from France, I realized that there was a treaty between India and France, which was signed way back in 1985. I was the first one to use the treaty for co-production in 2011-12. This is how I raised 50% of the budget from France (smiles).

Guneet Monga had a wonderful conversation with Karan Johar about the production aspects, taking Indian films to a global level and a lot more. One of her biggest breakthrough films was The Lunchbox (2013), starring the late Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Nimrat Kaur. During the release of the film, there were reports that there was tension between Irrfan and Nawazuddin. Guneet was asked about this aspect. Was there tension between Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui on the sets of The Lunchbox? Guneet Monga BREAKS silence: It was a part of the processnot significant Guneet Monga didnt deny the tensions between the two talented actors. However, she said, Both have their own format of working. I think the tension and love are in the script. And they both embraced it (smiles). It was a joy to see them work. It was one of their best performances. The way Irrfan sir played the khadoos , strict but so endearing manit definitely (spilled onto the set). Nawaz bhai had to always be the over-pleaser. It was a part of his character. She added, It was a joy to work with both of them. It was magical. I am very grateful that we were able to create this film. Baaki on set aur off set toh ( chalte rehta hai )! She clarified, It was not something that was significant. It was a part of the process. Both are genius actors. We saw them at play. When asked if the tiff between them caused her any tension, Guneet Monga revealed, Not even once. We have worked so much with Nawaz bhai. We did Haraamkhor (2017) and so many other movies. It was our first film with Irrfan sir. Aur independent film mein aap kitna khafa ho jaaoge ? Paise toh hai nahin (laughs). Guneet Monga revealed how Karan Johar contributed not just in presenting the film in India but also in another way, He walked out and gave us the films tagline Can you fall in love with somebody you have never met? Then he called me to his office and asked me, What do you need?. I said, A big release. We have done 100 screen release and we can do that. I want a 500 screen plus release.

The Bombay High Court has dismissed a 100-crore rupee defamation suit filed by Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui against his brother Shamasuddin Siddiqui and his estranged wife, Anjana Pandey, because the actor and his legal team did not show up in court for hearings. Nawazuddin Siddiquis Rs 100 crores defamation suit against brother and estranged wife dismissed after actor skips hearings Nawazuddin accused his younger brother, who was also his manager since 2008, of cheating and misusing his trust. He claimed he gave Shamasuddin control over his bank accounts and finances so he could focus on acting, but alleged that his brother bought several propertiesincluding flats in Mumbai, land, a farmhouse, a property in Dubai, and luxury vehiclesunder his own name, making Nawazuddin think they were co-owned. The actor also alleged that when he removed Shamasuddin as his manager in 2020, Shamasuddin influenced his ex-wife to file false cases against him. Nawaz accused both of them of sharing hurtful videos and social media posts that led to public embarrassment, mental distress, postponement of film projects, and harm to his reputation. Why Was the Case Dismissed? The High Court threw out the case because Nawazuddin and his lawyer missed several court dates and did not pursue the suit. The court, led by Justice Jitendra Jain, called this non-prosecution, meaning a case cannot move forward if the person filing it is absent. What Did Nawazuddin Want? Nawazuddin had asked for damages of Rs 100 crores for the harm and stress he faced, a permanent ban on his brother and ex-wife from posting anything defamatory, removal of all negative content, and a public apology. He also wanted them not to sell off their assets until he could recover any damages awarded. Speaking of the professional front. Nawaz is currently busy promoting his upcoming film, Thamma.The latest addition to the Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe is slated to release on October 21.

Acclaimed actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has officially signed on for the upcoming dark-comedy thriller Blind Babu , directed by Ravi Varma. The project is now in production, with filming underway. Nawazuddin Siddiqui begins shooting for Ravi Varmas Blind Babu Ravi Varma unveiled the news via his Instagram account, sharing a series of photos featuring Siddiqui alongside the films crew. In one snapshot, the actor and directors proudly hold the clapboard titled Blind Babu , signalling the start of filming. Another image features the entire team posing together, while a close-up of the clapperboard hints at the film's unique tone. Accompanying the visuals is Varmas caption, Ab bomb phatega ya kuch aur? Get ready for the chaos that will trap you in edge-of-the-seat suspense... but with dark comic relief... The journey of # BlindBabu begins now! Veteran actors Zakir Hussain, Pavan Malhotra, and Mukesh Tiwari are also expected to play pivotal roles in the film, though many details about the cast and crew remain under wraps. In addition to this new venture, Siddiqui's film Im Not An Actor premiered at the 14th DC South Asian Film Festival in Washington, D.C., held from September 57. Sharing his thoughts on the experience, Nawazuddin had said, The festival is a very warm, cozy festival. Theyre very caring of Asian films, and it brings us joy that ours is the opening film. We are all looking forward to seeing it with audiences from Washington. For me, to see an actor who is shooting in another country, thousands of miles away, on a video call, and act with them only on the video call for 30 days was a very new experience. After some point, we forgot about the technology and only focused on the emotions. Siddiqui is also set to appear in Raat Akeli Hai 2.He will also be seen in the horror-comedy Thama , alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik, Thama marks another intriguing entry in Siddiquis expanding filmography.

Maddock Films has unveiled the first look posters of its upcoming horror comedy Thama , introducing its key characters and generating excitement for the films Diwali release. The film marks the first collaboration between Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles, while seasoned actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal also play pivotal parts. #Ayushmann Khurrana Thama First Look: Maddock introduces Ayushmann Khurrana as insaaniyat ki aakhri umeed Alok, Rashmika Mandanna as Tadaka The makers shared individual posters highlighting the unique traits of each character. Ayushmann Khurrana appears in a dark and intense look as Alok, described as Insaaniyat ki aakhri Umeed, positioning him as the last hope for humanity. Rashmika Mandanna, portraying Tadaka, is introduced as Roshni ki ek hi paheli kiran, bringing a ray of light to the story. Nawazuddin Siddiqui showcases a quirky and unconventional avatar as Yakshasan, labeled Andhere ka badshah, adding a mysterious and enigmatic presence to the ensemble. Paresh Rawal, despite a seemingly ordinary look, intrigues audiences as Mr. Ram Bajaj Goyal, with the tagline Jo Hamesha Comedy Mein Tragedy Dhoondhte Hain, hinting at his comedic yet dramatic role in the narrative. To further fuel anticipation, Maddock Films announced that The World of Thama will drop online on August 19, providing fans with a deeper look into the Maddock Supernatural Universe. The captions across the posters read, This Diwali, the universe gives us a bloody love story in cinemas worldwide, underscoring the films blend of horror, comedy, and romance. Thama joins an expanding universe of supernatural films under Maddock, which includes actors like Varun Dhawan, Shraddha Kapoor, Abhishek Banerjee, Sharvari, and Rajkummar Rao. While specific plot details remain under wraps, reports suggest that the film will involve vampires, promising a fresh twist on the genre. With its intriguing character reveals and the expanding Maddock Supernatural Universe, Thama , directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, has already captured the attention of audiences, setting the stage for a Diwali release that combines horror, humor, and high-octane entertainment.

The Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe has emerged as a huge success, more so after its last film, Stree 2 (2024), earned more than Rs. 500 crores at the box office. As a result, the excitement is tremendous for its next film, Thama.It stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal and is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar of Munjya (2024), which was also a surprise success from this universe. It is common knowledge now that Varun Dhawan will reprise the role of Bhediya in this film. has learned more information about the appearance of the young actor in this film. #Varun Dhawan REVEALED: Varun Dhawan shoots for six days for Ayushmann Khurrana-Rashmika Mandanna starrer Thama; Vampire vs Bhediya battle expected to be a VISUAL spectacle A source told , Varun Dhawan has a lot more screen time in Thama , than in Stree 2.Even in Stree 2 , he was a highlight and here, the makers have ensured that the impact of his performance is many notches higher. He shot for as many as 6 days, which clearly indicates how crucial he is to the narrative. The source further said, Varun Dhawan plays Bhediya while in Thama, Ayushmann Khurrana is a vampire. The werewolf vs vampire enmity is a common trope for a long time. Blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films has taken this aspect in his upcoming release. Aditya Sarpotdar has canned it in a massive way and the action sequence between the two is expected to be a visual spectacle in terms of VFX and scale. The scene was shot in March-April this year. Interestingly, one of the upcoming films of Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe is Bhediya 2 and Thama is expected to give a hint about that as well. Bhediya 2 is scheduled for release on August 14, 2026 but as per trade sources, the film will be pushed due to delays. A new date for this film, as well as for other films of this universe like Shakti Shalini , originally meant for release on December 31, 2025 and Chamunda , which has been scheduled to hit cinemas on December 4, 2026, is also expected to be announced. Thama , which will be out on Diwali 2025, marks Ayushmann Khurranas first release after more than 2 years. His last release, Dream Girl 2 , was released on August 25, 2023. As for Varun, before Thama , hell be seen in a leading role in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari , co-starring Janhvi Kapoor. It will be released on the big screen on October 2 this year. More Pages: Thama Box Office Collection

The acclaimed filmmaker Ritesh Batras is set to return to the directors chair, six years after his last release, Photograph (2019), which starred Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sanya Malhotra. As per a report in Mid-Day, Batra is gearing up to begin production on a new romantic dramastaying true to the gentle, emotional storytelling that has become his hallmark over the past 12 years. The project is expected to go on floors in September. #Ritesh Batra Ritesh Batra returns with a love story 6 years after Photograph, shoot begins this September: Report Ritesh spent a considerable time writing this big romance. The film is in final prep mode, an insider revealed to the publication. Known for delivering heartfelt Indian romantic dramas like The Lunchbox (2013) and Photograph (2019), as well as international narratives such as Our Souls at Night (2017) and The Sense of an Ending (2017), Batra is now set to bring a cross-cultural love story to life. Its a mature romance between an Indian man and a foreigner. Its the kind of sensitive drama about love and loss that Ritesh has come to be known for, a source shared with Mid-Day. The cast for the project has already been finalized. The project will mark Ritesh Batras reunion with Guneet Monga Kapoor, who was one of the producers of The Lunchbox.She returns as one of the producers on this international co-production.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 3 : The biographical crime drama Costao, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui, was released on May 1 on ZEE5 and has received positive reviews from viewers.Set in Goa during the 1990s, the film revolves around the story of a bold customs officer who stands up against a powerful smuggling network, fighting crime and corruption while dealing with pressure from both the underworld and his own department.Nawazuddin plays Costao Fernandes, a sharp and fearless officer who doesn't follow rules but always seeks justice. While speaking to ANI, Nawazuddin spoke about preparing for the role and shared how meeting the real Costao Fernandes made a big difference in understanding the character. The actor also explained that instead of copying him, he tried to understand his feelings and behaviour."I prepared a lot. I met him before the shoot. We met while he was sitting quietly and I just observed him," Nawazuddin told ANI. "I didn't try to copy him. I focused more on his thoughts--what made him angry, what made him smile. I paid attention to his gestures, postures, and where his madness came from. These were the things I kept in mind. And of course, the script was so strong that it made things easier on set," he added. Vinod Bhanushali, the producer of Costao, spoke about taking the risk of making a biographical film and shared that it felt right when the team came together."When a story like this comes along, you feel it must be told. And when an actor like Nawaz bhai agrees to do it, you feel confident as a producer that the film will turn out well, Once a strong team is formed, we feel this film should be made. And when it comes to risk, well, business always has risks," Bhanushali said. The film is directed by Sejal Shah, who is making her debut as a filmmaker. It also stars Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal in key roles.