Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sejal Shah Discuss Costao and the Realities of Bollywood

In an insightful conversation, actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui and director Sejal Shah open up about their latest film Costao and the challenges of working in Bollywood. The duo discusses the importance of passion and discipline over raw talent, with Nawazuddin emphasizing that a successful acting career is built on consistency and hard work rather than fleeting moments of brilliance.
Costao, a biopic about a flood hero, takes a unique approach by depicting the protagonist’s complexities and moral dilemmas instead of glorifying him. Sejal Shah credits Nawazuddin’s natural acting style for bringing authenticity to the character, showcasing the importance of creating a relaxed environment on set for actors to deliver their best performances. (Also read: Hera Pheri 3 in Trouble Akshay Slaps Rs. 25 Crore Lawsuit on Paresh Rawal)
Both Nawazuddin and Sejal highlight the flaws in the Indian film industry, including nepotism, lack of professionalism, and the prioritization of star power over artistic merit. They criticize the industry’s tendency to whitewash biopics and underestimate audience intelligence, calling for more authentic, grounded storytelling. They also argue that local, relatable stories have more global appeal than commercial spectacles.
Ultimately, their conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in Bollywood toward professionalism, creative integrity, and films that reflect human complexity. Costao stands as a hopeful example of how Indian cinema can evolve while still maintaining its connection to local stories and global audiences.
Key Insights:
- Passion Over Talent: Success in acting comes from hard work and consistency, not just raw talent.
- Real Biopics: Costao avoids glorification and shows moral complexity.
- Bollywood Issues: Nepotism and unprofessionalism hinder serious actors and meaningful films.
- Honest Storytelling: The film industry needs more authenticity and grounded narratives that resonate globally.
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