Nawazuddin Siddiqui trained Ranveer Singh for...; Irrfan Khan reshaped Thama actor!

Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has cemented his place in the industry and the hearts of moviegoers with his powerful performances. Though he stepped into BTown with small roles in Sarfarosh and Munna Bhai MBBS, with Gangs of Wasseypur, Siddiqui rose to fame and has never looked back since then. Be it Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Kick, Thackeray or Manjhi, Siddiqui has proven his versatility by taking up roles with various shades. As the actor turns 51 today on May 19, 2025, here we bring some interesting anecdotes revealed by Siddiqui.

Also Read: Gangs of Wasseypur 3! Nawazuddin Siddiqui says, 'Without Anurag Kashyap, Faizal Khan'

Nawazuddin Trained Ranveer Singh For His Debut?

Ranveer Singh has carved a niche in the industry as an energetic and powerful performer. He has portrayed several noteworthy performances. However, many are not aware that it was Nawazuddin Siddiqui who trained Ranveer Singh for his debut movie Band Baaja Baarat.

During the interview with Pinkvilla, Siddiqui opened up about taking acting workshops for Ranveer Singh during the latter's Bollywood debut.

Siddiqui said, "For some time, yes, I had trained him. I had become a guy who would take workshops often. If someone wanted to become an actor and get launched, I was the go-to person."

When asked if he would take credit for Ranveer Singh's skilful acting, Siddiqui replied, "Ranveer Singh is a very good actor. Acting can’t be taught. It’s not some magic potion. You have to discover it within yourself. He (Ranveer) had his own talent. Yes, you can be shown different ways to approach, but eventually, you have to walk it yourself."

Irrfan Khan Reshaped Nawazuddin Siddiqui!

Legendary actor Irrfan Khan is widely regarded as one of the finest actors, not just in Indian cinema, but globally. Khan's uniqueness lies in his ability to portray a wide range of characters with natural authenticity and depth. The late actor still remains an inspiration for many aspiring actors. Well, did you know that Nawazuddin Siddiqui was also greatly inspired by him and it was Khan who reshaped Siddiqui?

Khan and Siddiqui have worked on around 8-10 projects including TV serials, movies and short films. During an interview with Pinkvilla, Siddiqui shared that he has numerous memories with Khan. However, he shared one particular anecdote that reshaped him as an actor.

Notably, Khan directed a movie that starred Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sadiya Siddiqui. The Afwaah actor recalled performing a scene during the rehearsals where he had to deliver a dialogue to the actress. It was then that Khan shared a valuable piece of advice that forever changed his outlook on acting. The important tip Khan gave to Siddiqui was to shorten the dialogue. He explained that it would have a greater impact, as it was more fitting for the audiovisual medium.

This philosophy, 'less is more' stayed with the Genius actor and continues to reflect in his acting choices.

Must Read: Nikkhil Advani 'dying to make' another Kal Ho Naa Ho! Inspiration has connection to Irrfan Khan

Nawazuddin Siddiqui's Upcoming Projects 

Nawazuddin Siddiqui will be next seen in Maddock Supernatural Universe's next project Thama, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead. Siddiqui will be seen as a Vampire in the movie.