A graduate of the National School of Drama (class of ’73), Naseeruddin Shah has clearly come a long way from Shyam Benegal’s Nishant (1975). Throughout, his journey has been characterized by his willingness to try new things, his aversion to being typecast, his meaningful association with serious theater, and the consistent quality of his performances. From playing heroes in films like Ijaazat (1987), Jalwa (1988) and ¬Hero Hiralal (1988) to supporting roles in star-studded extravaganzas like Ghulami (1985) and Tridev (1989), he manages to bring something special to each role; that little ‘extra’ of subsuming the stamp of his own personality with that of the character.
His involvement with serious theater began with the group he formed in 1977 – Motley Productions – along with Tom Alter and Benjamin Gilani (their first production was from the theater of the absurd – Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot). His recent theater tours have spanned Indian metros, showcasing plays by Ismat Chugtai, Sadat Hassan Manto and more. His Bollywood directorial debut was Yun Hota To Kya Hota (2006), starrying Paresh Rawal, Irfan Khan and Ayesha Takia.
In Barah Aana, he plays Shukla, a car driver, alongside Vijay Raaz and Arjun Mathur. The film’s screening at the Pune International Film Festival this year was met with strong critical acclaim – and popular support as well. As the March 13 launch date approaches, here’s a tip of the hat to a great Indian actor – and by all accounts, a great Indian human being as well!
Naseer looks good as ever!
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