Nawazuddin Siddiqui, one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, wasn’t always living the life of luxury he enjoys today. Before making his mark in the film industry, Nawazuddin endured immense struggles, including selling coriander and working as a watchman. His journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to becoming one of the highest-paid actors in Bollywood is nothing short of inspirational.
Early Life in Uttar Pradesh: A Dream Begins
Born in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, Nawazuddin’s life was far from glamorous. He completed his graduation in Chemistry and started working as a chemist to support his family. However, Nawazuddin’s heart was always set on acting. His desire to pursue his dream led him to the National School of Drama in Delhi, where he began his formal journey into acting.
But dreams don’t come easy, and neither did Nawazuddin’s path to stardom. Life in Delhi wasn’t kind, and he struggled financially. In interviews, Nawazuddin has shared how he borrowed money from friends just to survive, paying one person back by borrowing from another. He also worked as a watchman to make ends meet, all while pursuing his passion through acting workshops.
Struggles and Rejections: Facing Setbacks with Grit
Nawazuddin’s physical appearance wasn’t what people typically expect of a Bollywood hero, and that led to several rejections. Many ridiculed him for his dark skin, slight frame, and unconventional looks. Instead of letting the criticism break him, Nawazuddin embraced it. He’s spoken openly about this period, saying, “Yes, people made fun of my appearance, but I embraced it. I am not the typical hero, but I’ll show you what I can do.”
With this mindset, Nawazuddin continued to push forward, determined to prove that success wasn’t just about looks.
Breaking Into Bollywood: Small Roles, Big Talent
Nawazuddin’s big break in Bollywood came after he moved to Mumbai in 1999. His first role was a small part in Sarfarosh, starring Aamir Khan. He earned just Rs 500 for that role. But Nawazuddin didn’t let small parts discourage him. He continued working on films like Black Friday and Dev D, slowly gaining recognition for his talent.
It wasn’t until 2012 that Nawazuddin truly made a mark. His role as an intelligence officer in Kahaani captured the audience’s attention, but his rise to stardom came with Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur. This film solidified his position as a powerful performer in Bollywood, showcasing his raw talent.
Becoming a Star: A Villain and a Hero
After Gangs of Wasseypur, Nawazuddin’s career took off. He played a villain in Salman Khan’s blockbuster Kick, and followed that up with another hit, Bajrangi Bhaijaan. These films made Nawazuddin a household name. Whether playing the hero or the villain, he proved he could handle any role with ease and depth.
From Watchman to Millionaire: A Life Transformed
Today, Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s net worth is reportedly Rs 96 crore. Once a struggling watchman, he now commands up to Rs 10 crore per film. His luxurious Mumbai home, which is said to be worth Rs 13 crore, is a symbol of how far he has come.
Nawazuddin’s journey from selling coriander to becoming one of Bollywood’s top actors is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the belief that talent speaks louder than looks. His story continues to inspire aspiring actors across the country, proving that with enough grit and determination, anything is possible.
