THE Thespian

Devesh Sharma lists the top movies starring Naseeruddin Shah in the lead role

- Devesh Sharma

NASEERUDDIN SHAH is one of those actors whom you'd still watch even if they're doing nothing more than standing against a wall because there's poetry even in that stillness. In the late '70s and early '80s, he, along with friend and rival Om Puri, was the most sought-after actor for makers of art films. From the late '80s onward, he began to get starring roles in commercial films too, and soon got a fan following among the masses as well. He became Mr. Dependable to a range of directors, from Shyam Benegal to Subhash Ghai. Be it drama, comedy, or even action, he made his mark in every genre, giving something new to the audience with every role. Such is his virtuosity that he could pass off being a Parsee, a Maharashtrian, a Goan, or even a South Indian with aplomb, bringing the correct nuances to his dialogue delivery in the process. He could play everything from a bonded labourer to a doctor, a cop, and even a singer with equal finesse. He turns 72 on July 20 and we celebrate his birthday by profiling 10 of his early films where he showcases his versatility...

SPARSH (1980)

DIRECTOR: SAI PARANJPYE | CAST: NASEERUDDIN SHAH, SHABANA AZMI, SUDHA CHOPRA, OM PURI