Naseeruddin Shah turns 71: Films that prove he is an actor par excellence

Naseeruddin Shah is undoubtedly one of the finest actors in Indian cinema who has time and again proved his mettle. Be it the role of menacing shaayar in 'Sarfarosh' or a lewd superstar in 'The Dirty Picture', Naseeruddin has delivered stellar performances throughout his career.

With over 300 films to his credit, Naseeruddin has won three National Film Awards, a Padma Shri, and a Padma Bhushan.

Let's take a look at some of his best performances.

Mirch Masala | 1987

Ketan Mehta directed this classic piece brilliantly portraying the oppression of women in the villages of pre-independence era. Naseeruddin Shah plays the arrogant, promiscuous and evil subedar who wants to make Sonbai, a strong and beautiful woman played by Smitha Patil, yield to his sexual desires.

Jaane Bhi Do Yaron | 1983

A bizarre comedy, this Kundan Shah movie attained a cult status in the echelons of Indian cinema. This drama has Naseeruddin Shah playing a novice photographer trying to make a living along with his business partner.

Mandi | 1983

A satire on the business of prostitution and dirty politics in India, 'Mandi' directed by Shyam Benegal has Naseeruddin Shah playing a faithful servant to a ‘brothel madam’ played by Shabana Azmi. The film is considered an art house classic.

'Sarfarosh' | 1999

1999 film 'Sarfarosh' features Naseeruddin Shah playing the role of a poet and a terrorist in hiding. The film starred Aamir Khan in the lead but it was Naseeruddin who people remember even after all these years.

'A Wednesday' | 2008

Naseeruddin Shah, in one of his finest performances till date, portrays the role of a common man in 'A Wednesday' who is frustrated with the terror activities infesting the city of Mumbai. In his desperation to do something about the menace he takes a desperate step which brings the entire police force and the system at his knees.

'The Dirty Picture' | 2011

In 'The Dirty Picture', a biographical musical drama film inspired by the life of Silk Smitha, Naseeruddin Shah plays Suryakanth, an aging South Indian superstar who is involved in extramarital affair with the sultry leading lady.