The legendary actor, who stars in the emotionally charged Partition era drama alongside Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari and Vedang Raina, interacted 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 his trademark wit, humility and honesty. The actor said: “I firmly believe that all the credit for an actor’s success goes to the writer and the director. If the writing is not right, even the best actor in the world is unable to achieve something. And… well, I am living proof of that. I have given some truly terrible performances in several films, the kind my son watches on YouTube at 3:00 am, waking me up only to say, ‘Dad, one of your films is playing!'”
The audience burst into laughter as the veteran actor continued his candid reflection on his career and film itself.
“And in those moments, I would rather be asleep! That’s exactly what happened with this film. Imtiaz has written a truly exceptional script, with beautiful dialogues and incredibly powerful situations. I have seen his previous films, which I enjoyed immensely, and observed the immense love and care with which he works with his actors. Rarely do you come across directors who ask for a reshoot specifically to refine an actor’s performance; Imtiaz is one of those rare exceptions. So, I absolutely, my heart truly yearns, see this movie of yours,” he added.
Naseeruddin Shah’s heartfelt praise instantly became one of the highlights of the event, with many online calling it a masterclass in humility from one of Indian cinema’s greatest performers. Fans especially appreciated the way the actor openly acknowledged the importance of strong storytelling and direction over star power alone.
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Main Vaapas Aaunga seems to return the filmmaker to the deeply emotional style of romantic storytelling that made him one of Bollywood’s most loved 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 important collaboration between Imtiaz Ali and music maestro AR Rahman, along with 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 heartwarming Bollywood releases of 2026.
The film is scheduled to be released in theaters on June 12, 2026.
