17th September 2023,Mumbai: Vishal Bhardwaj has cemented his place as one of the finest filmmakers in Bollywood. His journey in the world of cinema has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by collaborations with some of the industry’s most talented actors. From “Maqbool” to “Haider,” Bhardwaj has delivered critically acclaimed films that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. As a producer, he has also championed projects like “Ishqiya” with Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi. In a recent interview, Bhardwaj opened up about his experiences working with stalwarts like Irrfan Khan and Naseeruddin Shah.
The Praise for Irrfan Khan and Naseeruddin Shah
In a candid interview, Vishal Bhardwaj showered praises on Irrfan Khan and Naseeruddin Shah, acknowledging their unparalleled acting prowess. He remarked that these two actors possessed the unique ability to seamlessly embody any character they took on. However, Bhardwaj couldn’t help but reveal an interesting facet of Naseeruddin Shah’s temperament, confessing that it occasionally led him to vow never to work with the actor again. Despite these fleeting clashes, Naseeruddin Shah’s undeniable talent consistently triumphs over any such resolutions. Bhardwaj humorously encapsulated his dilemma in Hindi, stating, “Inn logon mein jo khaas baat hai ke who itne bade kalakaar hain ke who kisi bhi kirdaar ko apne dhang se dhaal lete hain, hala ke Naseer saab shooting pe irritate ho jaate hain kabhi kabhi. Unka temper bada who hai… Har baar unse bolta hoon ab nahi karunga aapke saath kaam, bahut hogaya. Phir jab unka kaam dekhta hoon, Naseer saab ke bina kuch bhi kaam adhura lagta hai.”
Naseeruddin Shah: The Legend
Naseeruddin Shah, undoubtedly, ranks among the finest actors in the history of Bollywood. He is celebrated not only for his remarkable acting skills but also for his longevity in an industry known for its ever-changing dynamics. Collaborating once again with Vishal Bhardwaj, Shah starred in the filmmaker’s web series, “Charlie Chopra.” This series showcased Naseeruddin Shah’s exceptional talent alongside his sons, Vivaan and Imaad, and the seasoned actress Ratna Pathak Shah. The first season of this series is available for streaming on SonyLiv.
The Temperamental Side of Naseeruddin Shah
Naseeruddin Shah’s temperamental nature is no secret. In a candid revelation to “Humans of Bombay,” he shared an anecdote from his personal life. He disclosed that Ratna Pathak Shah’s parents initially opposed their marriage due to his behavior. This insight into his temperament offers a glimpse into the multifaceted personality of the legendary actor.
Naseeruddin Shah: The Voice of Critique
Naseeruddin Shah’s recent comments on films like “Gadar 2” and “The Kerala Story” have garnered attention in the media. His outspoken nature and willingness to critique the industry reflect his deep commitment to the art of cinema. Even in his criticisms, Shah’s profound understanding of the craft shines through, making his opinions significant in the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
Vishal Bhardwaj’s revelations about working with Naseeruddin Shah and Irrfan Khan shed light on the complexities and brilliance of these legendary actors. Their ability to immerse themselves in any role, coupled with their occasional temperamental quirks, only adds to their mystique. Naseeruddin Shah’s enduring legacy in Bollywood, as both an actor and a critic, continues to enrich the industry and inspire generations of aspiring talent. His collaborations with directors like Vishal Bhardwaj remind us of the magic that can be created when two great minds come together in the world of cinema.
-by Kashvi Gala