Naseeruddin Shah Says Great Actors Are Nothing Without Great Writers And Directors At Main Vaapas Aaunga Launch

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah delivered one of the most honest and memorable moments at the trailer launch of Main Vaapas Aaunga when he openly credited writers and directors for an actor’s success rather than performers themselves.

The legendary actor, who stars in the emotionally charged Partition-era drama alongside Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari, and Vedang Raina, was interacting with the media in Mumbai along with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali during the film’s trailer launch event.

When asked about his performance and his experience working on the film, Naseeruddin Shah responded with trademark wit, humility, and honesty. The actor said, “It is my firm belief that the entire credit for an actor's success goes to the writer and the director. If the writing isn't right, even the world's finest actor is powerless to achieve anything. And—well, I am living proof of that. I have delivered some truly terrible performances in several films—the kind my son watches on YouTube at 3:00 AM, waking me up just to say, ‘Dad, one of your movies is playing!’”

The audience burst into laughter as the veteran actor continued his candid reflection on his career and filmmaking itself.

“And in those moments, I would much rather be asleep! That is exactly what happened with this film. Imtiaz has penned a truly exceptional script, featuring beautiful dialogue and incredibly powerful situations. I have watched his previous films—which I enjoyed immensely—and I observed the immense love and care with which he works with his actors. One rarely encounters directors who call for a retake specifically to refine an actor's performance; Imtiaz is one of those rare exceptions. So, I am absolutely—my heart is truly yearning—to watch this film of yours,” he added.

The heartfelt praise from Naseeruddin Shah instantly became one of the biggest highlights of the event, with many online calling it a masterclass in humility from one of Indian cinema’s finest performers. Fans especially appreciated how openly the actor acknowledged the importance of strong storytelling and direction over star power alone.

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Main Vaapas Aaunga appears to return the filmmaker to the deeply emotional romantic storytelling style that made him one of Bollywood’s most beloved directors. Set against the backdrop of the Partition era, the film explores themes of love, longing, separation, memory, and unfinished emotional conversations spanning generations.

The trailer has already received strong reactions for its poetic visuals, emotional intensity, and powerful performances. The film also marks another major collaboration between Imtiaz Ali and music maestro AR Rahman, alongside lyricist Irshad Kamil.

With Naseeruddin Shah’s emotional words adding even more depth to the anticipation surrounding the film, Main Vaapas Aaunga is increasingly looking like one of the most soulful Bollywood releases of 2026.

The film is scheduled to release in theatres on June 12, 2026.