Thackeray: Here's how Nawazuddin Sidduqui was cast to play Balasaheb Thackeray in his biopic

Thackeray, based on the life of the Shiv Sena supremo - Balasaheb Thackeray, saw its newly released trailer trending on YouTube, with over 20 million views. Firebrand journalist-MP and man behind the film, Sanjay Raut, divulged that the casting for the role of Balasaheb took barely two minutes. Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui will be seen playing the character of Bal Thackeray in the biopic. 

“Once while I was traveling, I watched Freaky Ali, where Nawazuddin Siddiqui played a golfer. I had already seen it before but I started watching it again, only to realize that Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s face can be made to look like Balasaheb,” said Sanjay Raut, who is also the writer of the film.

Sanjay Raut averred that before casting Nawazuddin Siddiqui, he wanted to see his style and gestures. In a matter of moments, Sanjay Raut was convinced. “I called him at a hotel and I observed his style and gait. And within minutes, I told him that I am making the ‘Thackeray’ biopic and he is playing Balasaheb Thackeray,” continued Sanjay Raut.

Thackeray is slated for a worldwide release on January 25, 2019. Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays the Shiv Sena supremo alongside Amrita Rao who will portray Meenatai Thackeray. The movie has been directed by Abhijit Panse.