Nawazuddin Siddiqui says memories of shooting Haddi 'are very painful'

Nawazuddin Siddiqui in Haddi

Directed by Akshat Ajay Sharma, revenge drama Haddi, featuring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Anurag Kashyap, has redefined storytelling, performances, and direction. The film has received rave reviews for Nawaz's transformative portrayal of a transgender character.

The movie, released on ZEE5, is set against the backdrop of modern ruins in NCR, Gurgaon, and Noida and takes audiences on a vindictive ride, delving into the life of Haddi, a transgender portrayed by Nawazuddin Siddiqui who comes from Allahabad to Delhi to join a gang of transgenders and climbs up to the top of the criminal food chain to avenge his family who was wronged by a mighty powerful gangster turned politician, played by Anurag Kashyap. Co-written by Akshat Ajay Sharma and Adamya Bhalla, 'Haddi' presents a gritty and twisted revenge drama that skilfully exposes the intricate nexus of the criminal underbelly operating throughout the capital city.

Haddi has garnered a thumping response from the audience. Nawazuddin said, "We were confident that the film would get a good response, especially from the audience who are common people and women. It has been truly incredible. The entire team is elated with the response. Audiences have appreciated the characters and the film as a whole. We had the privilege of working with some exceptional actors, including Zeeshan, Ila ji, Anurag Kashyap, and Saurabh Sachdeva, all of whom delivered outstanding performances. I'm delighted to collaborate with such a talented ensemble, and I believe that the chemistry and dedication of the entire team contributed to the film's success."

When asked about memorable on-set moments, the actor said, "Memories were very painful, and I can't share that, sorry."

Talking about his experience working with Akshat in his debut film as a director. Nawaz said, "He was deeply immersed in research work. I believe he commenced the scriptwriting process approximately two years ago, and he generously shared all his observations. It's thanks to him that an entirely new world has been unveiled. When you watch the film, you're transported into the unique universe that Akshay has masterfully crafted. His extensive research and in-depth knowledge about this world shine through. Fortunately, he refrained from making the film preachy or delivering a heavy-handed message, which I found to be very commendable."

When asked about working with his director friend Anurag as a co-star this time, he said, "Yes, I was a little afraid that he should not become a director and pinpoint things, although thank God it didn't happen."