Embrace perseverance, not fame: NSD Graduate Zakir Hussain urges aspiring actors

Bollywood actor Zakir Hussain, a National School of Drama (NSD) graduate, has a message for aspiring actors chasing fleeting fame: it’s not enough to ride the wave of momentary success without introspection.

With decades of experience across film and theatre, Hussain calls on those who quickly fade from the spotlight to reassess their talents and perseverance, urging them to stay the course in an industry where resilience and adaptability are key to lasting success.

Zakir Hussain said that the aspiring actors should critically evaluate their own capabilities.

“It depends on your work,” Hussain stated. “They need to see their capabilities and the demand of the time. If there is a downfall in their career, one has to still work hard and not leave the field, because many actors leave the field without completing the race,” he told Patriot over the phone.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Hussain recounted his transition to Delhi, where he moved for his studies after completing the 8th grade.

“My father was working in Delhi as a contractor, and slowly we all started shifting to the city for education. We still have a house in Begumpur village of Malviya Nagar, and I studied in a government school there.”

He credited the city’s vibrant theatre culture for bolstering his confidence and shaping his career. “Theatre in Delhi gave me more confidence,” he said.

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Hussain began his theatre career in 1982 and shared his observations about changes at the National School of Drama (NSD).

“The syllabus and course remain the same at NSD Delhi, but the teaching methods and structural set-up have evolved. The repertory was in Ravindra Bhawan then, and we had two main spaces for rehearsals and classes, which have changed significantly,” said Hussain, who graduated from NSD in 1993.

The 58-year-old actor reminisced about working with the legendary figures of NSD’s Repertory Company, acknowledging their influence and the camaraderie they shared.

“The legends at NSD were an inspiration for us. I spent one and a half years there, assisting them and learning a great deal,” said Hussain.

Hussain also expressed concern over the dwindling audience for Indian theatre. “We need to work on bringing audiences back,” he said. “People are willing to spend a lot on movies but are less inclined to support theatre, and some even expect to attend theatre for free. We need to showcase powerful plays and decentralise theatre to reach a wider audience.”

He suggested that decentralising NSD’s Repertory shows could help, as the government provides aid for such initiatives.

Hussain shared an anecdote about his college friends’ reactions to a play he was involved in, highlighting the gap between theatre and public perception. “They had no idea what theatre was all about, but when they watched my play, they were shocked,” he said.

On his roles in films, Hussain explained that taking on challenging characters is crucial.

“My negative role in the film Sarkar was well-received, and my versatility allowed me to add comedic elements to my villainous character in the film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani,” said Hussain, who has acted in films like Black Friday, Johnny Gaddaar, Ramaiya Vastavaiya, Singham Returns, Heropanti 2, Mission Majnu, and others.

He added that casting directors are often hesitant to cast actors in roles that could negatively affect their films.

Hussain emphasised the importance of continuous improvement and not relying solely on acting school credentials.

“It’s not just about graduating from an acting school. It’s about how well you perform”, he said.

To aspiring actors, he offered a piece of advice: “Pack yourself with knowledge. Things don’t happen abruptly, and it takes time,” he said.

Regarding the differences between Bollywood and South Indian cinema, Hussain said that while past practices were less professional in Bollywood, there has been a shift towards greater discipline in recent years. “In South cinema, actors are known for their punctuality and respect, which has set a high standard,” said Hussain, who has acted in South Indian cinema movies Indian 2, Irudhi Suttru and Thupakki.

He also remarked on the professionalism of casting agencies, which he said are now more locally connected to ensure accurate casting.

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“If casting agencies fail to cast the best, they can shut down. While those who blame them might not be getting the work,” Hussain added.