Renowned actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his raw performances and intense screen presence, has once again sparked a much-needed conversation about the way talent is recognized — or often overlooked — in mainstream Indian cinema. In a recent interview, the Gangs of Wasseypur star drew a comparison between Bollywood and the South Indian film industries, pointing out that the South tends to put greater trust in the craft of acting rather than relying solely on star image when casting for big-budget projects.
Siddiqui, who has carved a niche for himself through his performances in offbeat and critically acclaimed roles, expressed admiration for how southern filmmakers are willing to cast skilled, trained actors in films with production values as high as ₹200 crore. “Down South, filmmakers believe in giving roles to people who are real actors, irrespective of their fame or appearance. Even in ₹200-crore films, they prioritize talent. That’s not the norm in Bollywood,” he remarked.
According to Nawazuddin, the South Indian film industries — be it Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, or Kannada — have built a reputation for storytelling that respects both the audience’s intelligence and the actor’s capability. He emphasized how this approach leads to powerful performances that connect with viewers on a deeper level and elevate the overall cinematic experience.
The actor highlighted that, in contrast, many mainstream Hindi films often rely on a star system that places glamour and box office potential above acting prowess. “There’s a tendency here to go for familiar faces and established names, even if they don’t suit the character,” he said. “It becomes more about packaging than substance.”
Siddiqui also acknowledged that this mentality is slowly shifting in Bollywood, with newer filmmakers challenging the status quo and taking risks with casting. But he maintained that the South continues to lead in making bold choices that favor authenticity over spectacle.
His comments have resonated with many fans and industry insiders who have long pointed out the growing creative gap between the two industries. South Indian cinema has recently gained significant national and international attention, with blockbuster hits like RRR, Pushpa, Kantara, and Jailer not only breaking box office records but also earning critical acclaim — all while featuring performers known more for their acting skills than celebrity status.
Nawazuddin’s candid remarks are not meant to pit industries against each other, but rather to shine a light on what’s working well and what Bollywood might learn from its southern counterparts. As someone who rose to prominence not through glamour but through relentless dedication to his craft, Siddiqui’s perspective offers a grounded and honest critique of the systems that shape Indian cinema.
In closing, the acclaimed actor reiterated that acting should always remain at the heart of filmmaking. “Cinema is a medium of storytelling. And for any story to feel real, you need actors who live the character, not just look the part. That’s what South cinema does so well, and I hope we move further in that direction here too.”
Siddiqui’s statement serves as both praise and a challenge — an invitation for Bollywood to revisit its priorities and redefine what it means to be a true star.
