Proud to have done film like 'Thackeray': Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Nawazuddin Siddiqui does not regret starring in biographical drama "Thackeray" as the actor says he has made a conscious decision to keep experimenting with unconventional parts.

The film, based on the life of Bal Thackeray, the founder of the political party Shiv Sena, was a major commercial and critical failure.

Before its theatrical debut on January 25 this year, "Thackeray" was labelled as a "propaganda" film in the wake of its release ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Despite criticism, Nawazuddin said he is "proud" to be a part of the film.

"I am an actor and I would like to play different characters. I am proud to have done a film like 'Thackeray'. Whatever fans say it, I would like to explore myself as an actor. I am not a regular actor who can do similar kinds of roles for 25-30 years. I want to keep experimenting with my roles," he told PTI.

The 44-year-old actor believes instead of a film's box office collections, fans should focus more on the hard work he puts in for the role.

"I feel the fans should look at how I have played a character, look at my craft, skills and hard work that I have put in rather than questioning why I did this film."