Nawazuddin Siddiqui Praises South Indian Cinema for Prioritizing Talent Over Stardom

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has drawn a sharp comparison between Bollywood and the South Indian film industry, highlighting a key difference in casting choices. In a recent statement, Siddiqui pointed out that while Bollywood often leans heavily on star power for big-budget films, South Indian cinema doesn’t hesitate to cast strong performers—even in ₹200-crore productions.

He praised the South for giving opportunities to true actors, regardless of their celebrity status, noting that their films often succeed by focusing on storytelling and performance rather than just fame. Siddiqui’s remarks shed light on a growing appreciation for substance over spectacle in Indian cinema—and a call for Bollywood to take note.