Nawazuddin Siddiqui wins Best Actor at NYIFF for powerful role in I’m Not an Actor

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has once again proven his mettle as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile performers by winning the Best Actor award at the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) for his role in I’m Not an Actor. The festival, known for spotlighting bold and meaningful cinema from the Indian diaspora, recognized Siddiqui’s deeply layered performance in a film that grapples with themes of identity, authenticity, and the blurred lines between real life and performance.

Directed by Aditya Kripalani, I’m Not an Actor follows the story of a man navigating emotional turmoil while grappling with his role—both on and off the stage. Siddiqui’s portrayal is rich in introspection, marked by a quiet restraint that captures the internal conflicts of the character with powerful subtlety. Critics praised the performance for its emotional depth and unflinching honesty.

In his acceptance speech, Siddiqui expressed his gratitude for the recognition:
“This award is special because it acknowledges the kind of cinema that challenges you as an actor. I’m Not an Actor is a film that asked me to look inward, and I’m thankful to the director and the team for trusting me with such a complex role.”

The film was officially screened at NYIFF, where it garnered significant attention from attendees and jurors alike. The selection and subsequent win further solidify Nawazuddin’s standing as a favorite in international film circuits, particularly in roles that push emotional and psychological boundaries. His performance stood out for its authenticity, avoiding melodrama in favor of a more grounded and compelling character study.