As ‘Haddi’ marks its first anniversary, Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui reflects on his transformative journey into one of the most complex and challenging roles of his career. The film, which has garnered critical acclaim and sparked discussions on representation and authenticity, saw Siddiqui stepping into the shoes of a transgender character with an unprecedented level of dedication and immersion.
In an exclusive interview commemorating the film’s milestone, Siddiqui shared vivid details of his rigorous preparation for the role. He admitted that it was one of the most intensive experiences of his acting career. “I worked really hard on this character after a long time,” Siddiqui revealed. Unlike his previous roles, this character required him to live among the transgender community to understand their lives and emotions deeply. “Before filming ‘Haddi,’ I stayed with the community. They see themselves as women, aspiring to feel complete. Keeping this in mind, I approached the role as if I was playing a female character,” he explained.
This approach required more than just a superficial understanding; it demanded a profound sense of empathy and identification. Siddiqui’s immersion wasn’t limited to intellectual understanding; it extended to physical transformation as well. Reflecting on these changes, he recalled, “The makeup alone took three hours. As it progressed, I felt myself changing. I adopted a softness in my demeanor and even wore the same undergarments as a woman. I didn’t want to be Nawaz anymore; I wanted to truly become the character.”
The extent of Siddiqui’s transformation was so deep that even his co-stars and crew members noticed a significant change in his behavior and presentation on set. His commitment to the role went beyond mere preparation; it was an exercise in losing his identity to inhabit the character’s skin fully. This dedication highlights not only Siddiqui’s respect for the craft of acting but also his reverence for the lives and struggles of the transgender community.
The actor did not shy away from discussing the physical and emotional toll the role took on him.
. “It was one of the most difficult characters I’ve ever played. The entire process, including the elaborate makeup, taught me so much about what female actors go through,” Siddiqui noted. The act of sitting through hours of makeup and costuming was both a lesson in patience and a window into the daily experiences of many women in the industry. It was an eye-opener concerning the gender-based challenges within the field.
Looking back, Siddiqui’s experiences during the making of ‘Haddi’ were not just transformative but educational. “It made me more sensitive and informed about the struggles and aspirations of transgender individuals. It’s not something you can fully comprehend from the outside; you have to be willing to step into their world and see life through their eyes,” he said.
His portrayal was met with widespread praise, not just for its authenticity but also for the sensitivity and dignity with which it was executed. It’s a reflection of the lengths to which actors can go to ensure that they are not just playing a role but embodying a character with all the complexities and nuances that come with it. Siddiqui’s efforts in ‘Haddi’ are a testament to his dedication to the art of acting and his commitment to respectful and accurate representation.
As ‘Haddi’ celebrates its first year, Siddiqui’s performance continues to resonate, proving that his dedication to his craft is inspiring. His transformative journey in ‘Haddi’ serves as a reminder of his remarkable ability to lose himself in his roles and bring powerful, transformative stories to life. The film remains a significant milestone in his career, underscoring his versatility and profound ability to connect with his characters on a deeper level.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s experience with ‘Haddi’ also resonates with broader societal conversations about inclusion and representation in the media. His portrayal has opened doors for more nuanced and empathetic storytelling, encouraging the film industry to approach complex characters with the care and authenticity they deserve.
As we look toward the future, the impact of Siddiqui’s work in ‘Haddi’ will likely continue to influence and inspire both audiences and fellow actors. It stands as a benchmark for the power of immersive and respectful acting, setting a high standard for future portrayals of transgender characters in cinema. Indeed, Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s dedication to becoming—not just playing—a character is an enduring lesson in the transformative power of empathy and commitment in the arts.
