A film is often fully dominated by its lead actor, until a strong character actor steps in, plays his part to perfection, and leaves a distinct impact. One such legendary actor who consistently delivers powerful performances is Nawazuddin Siddiqui. A perfect example of his brilliance is his portrayal of Chand Nawab in the 2015 release Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Proficient in his craft, Nawazuddin proved that a true actor doesn’t need lengthy screen time to leave a lasting impression. As the film celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s worth reminiscing about Nawazuddin as Chand Nawab and understanding why his character is still remembered so fondly.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan is a heartwarming tale that follows the extraordinary journey of a man who takes it upon himself to reunite a mute Pakistani girl with her family across the border. Along the way, he meets Chand Nawab, a Pakistani news reporter. Inspired by a real-life reporter of the same name, the character quickly became a standout element in the film. From his bond of friendship with Pawan (played by Salman Khan), to his impeccable comic timing and emotional depth, Nawazuddin nailed every aspect of the role.
It’s worth noting that very few actors possess the charm to make audiences eagerly await their next scene and Nawazuddin proved he’s one of them. As Chand Nawab, he was a true friend, a loyal journalist, and a compassionate human being. He portrayed a range of emotions with ease, making viewers feel every moment. His very first scene, reporting at a railway station with a train passing in the background, instantly had audiences laughing. That’s when his character truly entered the narrative, and from that point on, viewers kept looking forward to his next appearance.
There’s no doubt that Nawazuddin is a brilliantly versatile actor, and Chand Nawab is just one of the many examples that highlight his talent. The audience fell in love with the character, and even after a decade, his role remains one of the most memorable aspects of Bajrangi Bhaijaan.
(Contributed by Maithili Bachani)