Renowned actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui first met filmmaker Anurag Kashyap on the sets of the 1999 film Shool. However, their initial interaction was not what one might expect. “I had gone to do a small part in Shool, and there he was,” Siddiqui recalls. “He had seen my work in Sarfarosh and advised me not to take the small role I was offered in Shool, suggesting I wait for a bigger part. But I needed the work, so I did it.”
‘All about vibe’
Despite their first encounter starting on a discouraging note, their relationship blossomed into a strong friendship. Siddiqui attributes this to an instant connection. “When we first met, I felt he was my kind of person. Even before I got more work, I sensed that he would take care of me in every way. He exudes such positive energy,” Siddiqui shares.
Creative Collaboration and Friendship
Their partnership proved fruitful when they collaborated on the critically acclaimed film Gangs Of Wasseypur in 2012. Siddiqui emphasizes the importance of creative differences in their work. “Creative differences are always there, but the fun lies in reaching a consensus together. Anurag is someone I can’t even call just a friend, but he is. When I’m stuck, I go to him for the right advice, and he always helps me out.”
A Unique Bond
Their friendship, according to the 50-year-old actor, is devoid of professional greed, which he believes is the key to its strength. “Our friendship has never been on the verge of breaking up because I have never asked for work from Anurag. In our industry, when friendships are based on work, differences start to arise. But neither of us has any selfish motives,” Siddiqui insists.
Concerns Over Kashyap’s Health
Kashyap, often a figure of controversy, is known for his blunt attitude—a trait Siddiqui admires yet occasionally wishes to temper. “I have never told him this, but many times I have wanted to stop him. However, he always calls me out when I am in such a situation,” Siddiqui reveals. The actor expresses a desire to change one thing about his friend: “He is very careless regarding his health, and I want him to be in the best state health-wise.”
Their enduring friendship, marked by mutual respect and devoid of professional jealousy, continues to thrive, setting a rare example in the film industry.
