Over the years, Nawazuddin Siddiqui has etched a name for himself, creating a league of his own. With performances that go far beyond conventional stardom, Nawazuddin has shown some remarkable versatility, intense screen presence, and the ability to completely transform into the character he portrays. On his birthday, here's looking at some of his most iconic roles that have become cult favourites.
Updated On: 2026-05-19 02:31 PM IST
Compiled by : Amarylisa Gonsalves
A. Khan (Kahaani)
In the 2012 thriller Kahaani, Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays A. Khan, a tough and coarse Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer with a brash, no-nonsense investigation style.
Ganesh Gaitonde (Sacred Games)
Nawazuddin as Ganesh Gaitonde in Sacred Games is undoubtedly one of the most iconic OTT characters. He delivered a career-defining digital performance. He portrayed the feared gangster with vulnerability, ambition, and rage.
Liak Mohammed Tungrekar (Badlapur)
In Badlapur, Nawazuddin played Liak, a morally ambiguous criminal whose vulnerability and unpredictability made him one of the most fascinating aspects of the film.
ACP J.A. Majmudar (Raees)
Nawazuddin Siddiqui played the sharp, relentless, and honest police officer ACP J.A. Majmudar in the 2017 action-crime film Raees.
Saadat Hasan Manto (Manto)
Nawazuddin played the legendary writer Saadat Hasan Manto in Manto, and delivered a restrained yet deeply moving performance, bringing the intellect, rebellion, and emotional turmoil of the great writer.
Shiv Gajra (Kick)
In Kick, Nawazuddin played the eccentric and flamboyant antagonist Shiv Gajra. His quirky mannerisms, sharp dialogue delivery, and dramatic villainous energy made the character memorable.
Faizal Khan (Gangs of Wasseypur)
His portrayal of Faizal Khan in Gangs of Wasseypur remains one of the most iconic performances in modern Indian cinema. No doubt why Faizal is a cult character.
Thamma (Thamma)
In the film Thamma, Nawazuddin stepped into the titular role, once again showing his range in a character layered with intensity and intrigue.
Chand Nawab (Bajrangi Bhaijaan)
As Chand Nawab in Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Nawazuddin brought humour, sincerity, and heart to the role of a Pakistani journalist.
Dashrath Manjhi (Manjhi: The Mountain Man)
Nawazuddin transformed into the real-life hero, Dashrath, who carved a road through a mountain with sheer determination, delivering an emotionally rich performance with resilience, pain, and unwavering love.
Shaikh (The Lunchbox)
In The Lunchbox, Nawazuddin played Shaikh, a cheerful and talkative colleague who brought warmth and lightness to the film.
Ramanna (Raman Raghav 2.0)
Nawazuddin's chilling performance as the psychotic serial killer Ramanna in Raman Raghav 2.0 was haunting and deeply unsettling.
