As the eminent and award-winning actor Naseeruddin Shah marks his 74th birthday, film enthusiasts and admirers of his work have a treasure trove of cinematic gems to reminisce about. Known as much for his bold voice on public issues as for his versatile acting prowess, Shah’s journey from mainstream Bollywood flicks like ‘Hum Paanch’ (1980) to thought-provoking thrillers such as ‘The Tashkent Files’ (2019) encapsulates a rich tapestry worth cherishing. On this special occasion, let’s delve into some of his most revered roles that have etched his name permanently in the annals of Indian cinema.
### Sparsh (1980)
Directed by Sai Paranjpye, the film ‘Sparsh’ promises an emotional experience that grips the heart, exploring the nuanced dynamics of a visually impaired principal and a sighted teacher, portrayed by Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi respectively. This narrative beautifully captures the intricacies of their relationship, highlighting the emotional and perceptual chasm between the “blind” and the “sighted”. Shah’s subtle acting in this sensitive portrayal won acclaim for effectively showcasing complex relational issues inherent in the lives of the visually handicapped.
### Masoom (1983)
Based on the 1980 novel ‘Man, Woman and Child’ by Erich Segal, ‘Masoom’ presents a poignant family drama revolving around Indu (Shabana Azmi) and DK (Naseeruddin Shah) along with their idyllic life, which is upended by the revelation of DK’s previous affair and a resultant illegitimate son. The family’s ensuing struggle and the heart-wrenching complexities of their relationships are masterfully depicted in this moving storyline, leaving viewers with profound introspective thoughts.
### Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983)
‘Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro’, a timeless satire, masterfully explores corruption with biting wit and humor. The film narrates the tale of two photographers, played by Naseeruddin Shah and Ravi Baswani, who uncover a web of sleaze. Their journey to bring justice to light amidst a society rife with greed and malfeasance is both universal and enduring, underlining the film’s timeless relevance to audiences.
### Bazaar (1982)
Set against the backdrop of Hyderabad, ‘Bazaar’ casts a critical eye on the practice of bride-buying, charting the tragic story of a young girl sold by her impoverished parents to wealthy expatriates. Naseeruddin Shah’s portrayal of Salim, a poet in love with Najma (Smita Patil), adds gravitas to the narrative. The film intricately weaves the characters’ journeys through emotional and social trials, making it a poignant watch.
### Begum Jaan (2017)
Naseeruddin Shah delivered a striking performance in ‘Begum Jaan’, the tale of eleven determined women running a brothel who find themselves at the confluence of India’s partition.
. Shah portrays Raja Sahib, under whose aegis the brothel operates safely. The film, helmed by National Award-winning director Srijit Mukherji, offers a deep look into the resilience and camaraderie of women braving tumultuous times.
### Mid-Wicket Tales with Naseeruddin Shah (2016)
For cricket aficionados, ‘Mid-Wicket Tales with Naseeruddin Shah’ is a treasure trove of engaging cricketing stories and anecdotes. The show features firsthand accounts from legendary cricketers like Tiger Pataudi and Bishan Singh Bedi, complemented by luminaries such as Shashi Tharoor, Charu Sharma, and Sharmila Tagore. Shah’s dedication to hosting makes it a must-watch for anyone captivated by cricket’s rich history.
### Mohra (1994)
‘Mohra’ emerged as a massive blockbuster, becoming the second highest-grossing film in India in 1994. It garnered several Filmfare nominations and is particularly remembered for its chart-topping music. In this action-packed narrative, Naseeruddin Shah’s portrayal of the antagonist Mr. Sandeep Jindal—a media mogul and ruthless drug lord—added an unforgettable dimension to the film.
### Dedh Ishqiya (2016)
In ‘Dedh Ishqiya’, the misadventures of the crooked duo Khallu (Naseeruddin Shah) and Babban (Arshad Warsi) unfold in an enthralling blend of wit and romance set amidst the courtly traditions of Nawabs. Shah’s performance stands out, and the film eclipses its predecessor in charm and storytelling, delivering sharp, spicy, and volatile entertainment.
### Foto (2007)
Winner of several awards, ‘Foto’ is a heartwarming film about an imaginative 11-year-old boy struggling to connect with peers. Naseeruddin Shah’s role adds a layer of depth to this delightful tale where fantasy and reality coalesce, offering viewers a mesmerizing cinematic experience.
Known for his candid public opinions and unparalleled talent, Naseeruddin Shah’s journey in Bollywood from ‘Hum Paanch’ to ‘The Tashkent Files’ remains truly inspiring. Celebrating his 74th birthday, fans have ample reasons to revisit these cinematic masterpieces that testify to his indelible impact on Indian cinema.
