Never entertained the thought of failure: Naseeruddin Shah

When Naseeruddin Shah was young and starting out his career, the actor was prepared for "a long hard struggle", aware of the odds he was against but hopeful for a fruitful pay off.

The actor made a name for himself in what was referred to as the 'parallel cinema' in the 70s and 80s, headlining off-beat films and collaborating with mostly young and new directors.

"I never felt any despair because I didn't expect success to come easily," Shah told PTI, reflecting on what he felt when he began acting.

"I was prepared for a long hard struggle. I was also not willing to admit defeat easily. The thought of failure didn't even occur to me, even though I knew the odds I was battling."
01"There has been no change in the way I see things today, in fact it has been consolidated, confirmed in my head now."
"It's very encouraging for me to feel wanted by the younger generation. I've done hundreds of films with first time directors and never regretted it."
Shah, however, is aware of the intimidation a debutant might feel working with him. "How do we direct a man whose films we grew up watching?"
"I understand that but I try my best not to let that get in the way. I don't believe in overruling the director. If I don't have faith in the director I'll probably not work with that person."