Nawazuddin Siddiqui Returns to Stage After 30 Years

Nawazuddin Siddiqui, acclaimed for his screen realism, is returning to the stage after a 30-year break.

His new play, 'Naqaab,' directed by Paritosh Painter, premiered in Chicago on July 17 and is embarking on a nine-city US tour. This production also signifies the acting debut of Siddiqui's 15-year-old daughter, Shora.

Siddiqui shared that films, despite his success, had started feeling creatively unfulfilling. He feels theatre offers deeper characters and more experimentation than cinema, which often has limitations due to commercial pressures.

He believes theatre actors have significantly contributed to realism in the film industry. His daughter, Shora, who also trained with Painter, is performing a challenging role, which Siddiqui sees as an invaluable learning experience.

Siddiqui chose theatre for Shora's debut, believing it provides a stronger foundation than film workshops, despite her initial training in London. Shora has been critical of his performances, even before her own debut.