How Anurag Kashyap Convinced Nawazuddin Siddiqui For Sacred Games

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Nawazuddin Siddiqui revealed how Sacred Games first came to him.
From making his Bollywood debut with a small role in Aamir Khan-starrer Sarfarosh to delivering impeccable performances in films like Black Friday, Gangs of Wasseypur, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Manto, Nawazuddin Siddiqui has cemented his place in millions of hearts.
Over the years, Nawazuddin has been celebrated for the depth and authenticity he brings to each of his characters. His talent has been recognised with a National Film Award, an IIFA Award and two Filmfare Awards.
Beyond films, he has also earned widespread acclaim on digital platforms, especially for the much-loved series Sacred Games and McMafia, both of which received Emmy nominations.
Among his many powerful performances, his portrayal of Ganesh Gaitonde in Netflix's Sacred Games remains unforgettable and continues to be regarded as one of his career's most defining roles.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui on How Sacred Games Happened To Him
In a recent podcast with Rohan Dua for The New Indian, Nawazuddin revealed how Sacred Games first came to him. Sharing the story, he said, 'Motwane approached me first. I told him, 'I have struggled so much to finally get into films and now you want me to do a TV serial again? I don't want to.' But he said, 'Nawaz, this is not a TV serial. It's OTT. It will be watched all over the world.' Honestly, I didn't believe him. Motwane is a very to-the-point guy, and unless there is some drama, we actors don't really get convinced. So I ignored it for three or four months."
He further shared how Vikramaditya Motwane eventually asked co-director Anurag Kashyap to step in and convince him. Nawaz recalled, 'Eventually, Motwane told Anurag, 'You convince him.' Anurag, after a drink or two, sat me down and said, 'Just do it, it's a great character.' I finally said, 'Alright, let's do it.' They even told me this could surpass Gangs of Wasseypur. That's when I said, 'Okay, let's do it.'"
Nawazuddin Siddiqui on His Relation With Anurag Kashyap
Nawazuddin and Anurag Kashyap have collaborated on several pathbreaking films, including Black Friday, Dev D, Gangs of Wasseypur and Raman Raghav 2.0. When asked what truly draws him towards working with Anurag, Nawazuddin admitted it is difficult to explain.
He said, 'I don't know, I have never felt the need to explain this bond. I try to, but I don't find the words. A few days ago, we were together in New York for 10–12 days. We didn't have any deep conversations, just casual talks here and there. But the first time I met Anurag, I don't know why, I felt he had a very positive approach towards me. And when I started working with him, I realised how intelligent he is, how much he reads."
When the host asked if the two had ever fought, Nawazuddin quickly dismissed the thought. 'No, no, never. We can never fight. People tried to spread rumours, but both he and I know what we share. Nobody in the world can create misunderstandings between us," he said firmly.
Describing what it feels like to be directed by Anurag Kashyap, Nawazuddin added, 'When he directs me, I feel like he protects me. There are some directors with whom you don't really act, you only say your lines. But with Anurag, I get that chance to really communicate through my performance. I get that space for expression."
Nawazuddin Siddiqui's Workfront
On the professional front, Nawazuddin Siddiqui was last seen in Costao, a crime drama directed by Sejal Shah. Up next, the actor will be seen in Raat Akeli Hai 2 and Thama, both of which are eagerly awaited by his fans
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