No cliched romance for Nawazuddin

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has delivered impressive performances in films like Peepli Live, Kahaani and Gangs of Wasseypur that have been critically acclaimed and have been appreciated by the audience as well.

In an exclusive chat, the actor, however, continues to be modest and explains that as an actor, it his job to deliver good performances.

Nawazuddin had been struggling for a long time before getting the right break with filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap, Dibakar Banerjee and the likes, and finally finding success in these movies. The actor says, "I had to struggle for 10-11 years before getting movies with known filmmakers but I would describe it as der aaye durust aaye [Better late than never]. I now feel satisfied with the kind of work I am doing. If you are deserving, you will get work, though it's sad that many haven't got their due."

Nawazuddin's last release, Bombay Talkies, added to the list of films that earned him praise. Nawaz says the film was special as he played a father who wanted his daughter to be proud of him.

The actor says, "Playing believable characters is what excites me as an actor. Among the best compliments that I got for that role, were when people told me that they could relate to my character."

The actor, who is known for his choice of offbeat films, admits that he doesn't see himself doing an out-and-out masala flick anytime soon, adding that he enjoys doing things differently.

He says, "People ask me if I am game for a romantic film. Even Gangs of Wasseypur had its share of romance but it was done differently. I don't think clichd romance or comedy works for me it has to be something new and exciting to work on."

The actor will soon be seen working with the same team in his next short film titled Shorts after working with director Anurag Kashyap in Gangs of Wasseypur.

Anurag Kashyap, Huma Qureshi and Richa Chadda will join Nawaz in this much awaited short film. "It was a reunion of sorts, though each of us are working on a different part of the short film. I feel Huma and Richa are exceptionally talented and I would love working with them again," he says, with a smile.

While most actors aim to work with well known directors from the industry, Nawaz tells us that he enjoys working with new and young directors. "It is the young directors who will decide what turn our films will take. They are open to listening to ideas and value your inputs. The results show on screen," says Nawaz.