Renowned actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, celebrated for his unconventional journey in Bollywood, has once again shed light on the persistent issue of discrimination in the film industry based on physical appearance. In a recent candid conversation, Siddiqui spoke about how looks often outweigh talent in casting decisions, raising an important and uncomfortable question: “Did anyone ever invest ₹20-30 crore to make a film around an actor like Irrfan Khan?”
Known for his raw and powerful performances, Nawazuddin has often been vocal about the hurdles faced by actors who don’t fit the stereotypical “hero” mold in Bollywood. His latest comments serve as a sharp reminder of the biases that still exist, despite the industry’s growing claims of evolution and change.
Referring to the late Irrfan Khan — one of India’s most respected and internationally acclaimed actors — Siddiqui pointed out that despite Irrfan’s unparalleled talent, mainstream filmmakers rarely built large-scale commercial films solely around him. He questioned the industry’s persistent obsession with superficial glamour, suggesting that true acting prowess is often overlooked in favor of conventional beauty standards.
Nawazuddin’s statements have struck a chord with many aspiring actors and fans who admire talents like him and Irrfan for redefining the narrative of who can be a leading man in Bollywood. His reflections also underline a harsh reality: while the audience’s acceptance of diverse talent has grown, the business side of cinema still hesitates when it comes to betting big on actors who don’t fit the traditional “star” image.
By bringing up the example of Irrfan Khan — an actor revered worldwide for his brilliance — Siddiqui highlighted just how deeply rooted this appearance-based bias is, even for those who have proven their talent time and again.
As conversations around inclusivity and representation continue to gain momentum, Nawazuddin’s words serve as a crucial reminder that true change in the entertainment industry requires not just admiration for talent but also genuine investment and trust in it.
