Updated on: 19 July, 2024 01:33 PM IST |Shweta Shah
When we make a list of actors that left a mark on us with their performances, it is safe to say Naseeruddin Shah tops that one. Blending into the character and making every scene look effortless speaks volumes of his acting ingenuity and versatility. As the three-time national award winner rings in his 72nd birthday, lets revisit some of his iconic roles that have left us spellbound. Heres wishing Naseeruddin Shah a very happy birthday.
1. Naseeruddin Shah as Devendra Kumar in Masoom
An adaptation of Erich Segal's bestseller Man, Woman and Child, Masoom marked Shekhar Kapur's directorial debut. the actor shares the screen with Shabana Azmi, and Supriya Pathak. Jugal Hansraj and Urmila Matondkar play child actors in the movie. The plot revolves around the actor's extra-marital affair with Bhavana (Supriya Pathak) which results to him having a son (Jugal Hansraj).When his wife Indu (Shabana Azmi) comes to knowledge with this, she is shattered and refuses to bring Hansraj home. However, Devendra (Naseeruddin) goes against her wish and brings his son home. The movie was way ahead of its time and fetched the actor a Filmfare for Best Actor Award. The song 'Tujhse Naaraz Nahi Zindagi' was an instant hit.
If you've not seen this movie, now is the time.
2. Naseeruddin Shah as an Unnamed Common Man in A Wednesday
For those who haven't watched this movie, you're missing out on a true Bollywood masterpiece. Phenomenally playing an unnamed common man's character, Naseer decides to take law and order in his hands to eradicate terrorism. The plot of the film revolves around 2006 Mumbai local train bombings that shook the city. Written and helmed by Neeraj Pandey, A Wednesday! also stars Anupam Kher and Jimmy Shergil in pivotal roles.
3. Naseeruddin Shah as Khalujaan in Ishqiya
A black comedy helmed by Vishal Bhadwaj, Ishqiya starred naseeruddin Shah, Arshad Warsi, and Vidya Balan in the lead. Although the movie performed moderately well on the box office, Naseer's character Iftikhar aka Khalujan was the highlight of Ishqiya. Stepping into the shoes of a criminal, this movie, among others proved Naseer's versatility and how naturally he blends into the character.
4. Naseeruddin Shah as Shiv Natraj in Waiting
When society doesn't teach you how to grief, Naseer does. In the 2015 released movie, the actor shares the screen with Kalki Koechlin. Both their respective spouses are in a comatose stage. While his wife has a stroke, Kalki's husband breathes on the ventilator due to a deadly car accident. Two people from different walks of life bond over their similar situation where Shiv Natraj (Naseer) explains Tara (Kalki) five stages of grief. Though the film had a below-average run, Shah and kalki's performces were highly applauded.If you haven't watched this masterpiece yet, add it to your binge-watch list now.
5. Naseeruddin Shah as Salman Habib in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
You'd be lying if you haven't already planned a trip with your gang after watching this movie! Though a short one, Naseer's role left an impact on Imran's life as well as ours. Running away from responsibilities may have been a selfish decision but it made Farhan Akhtar realize the value of his Ammi and Abbu. At times, relations are not defined by blood, but by love and actions. Salman Habib brought out his most vulnerable side, the one which neither of his friends had seen.With every movie, Naseer Ji delivers masterpieces that elevates Bollywood content to a level higher. Radio City wishes the superstar a very happy birthday.
