Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has made it clear that retirement is nowhere on his mind. Even at the age of 76, the acclaimed actor believes he still has plenty to contribute to cinema, which is why he has chosen to decline several lifetime achievement awards that were recently offered to him.
Speaking at the success celebration of Main Vaapas Aaunga, Naseeruddin shared that accepting such honours would make him feel as though his journey as an actor had come to an end—a sentiment he simply doesn’t agree with.
‘I Don’t Think My Job Is Done’
Addressing the audience and media at the film’s 50-day success event in Mumbai, Naseeruddin Shah revealed that he has politely turned down multiple lifetime achievement awards.
According to the actor, these awards often suggest that an artist’s career has reached its conclusion. However, he believes he still has many stories to tell and performances to deliver.
“I have been offered several lifetime achievement awards recently, and I said no. Lifetime achievement awards are a way of saying your work is done. I don’t think my job is done,” he said.
His candid remarks drew applause from those present, reflecting the passion that continues to drive one of India’s finest actors.
Celebrating the Success of Main Vaapas Aaunga
The event was organised to celebrate the successful theatrical run of Main Vaapas Aaunga, which completed 50 days in cinemas—a rare milestone in today’s film industry.
Expressing gratitude, Naseeruddin said he feels fortunate to have been part of the film and thanked audiences for showering it with love.
The Imtiaz Ali directorial has received appreciation from both critics and moviegoers, with many praising its emotional storytelling and powerful performances.
A Career That Continues to Inspire
Naseeruddin Shah began his acting journey in the 1970s and soon became one of the leading faces of India’s parallel cinema movement before establishing himself in mainstream Bollywood.
Over the decades, he has delivered memorable performances in films such as Sparsh, Paar, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Masoom, Iqbal, A Wednesday!, Ishqiya and many more.
His remarkable body of work has earned him multiple National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards and immense respect from audiences and fellow actors alike.
Even after nearly five decades in the industry, the veteran actor continues to take on challenging roles across films, OTT platforms and theatre.
Still Passionate About Acting
Recently, Naseeruddin also received praise for portraying industrialist J.R.D. Tata in the web series Made in India. His latest film, Main Vaapas Aaunga, has further reaffirmed that his craft remains as compelling as ever.
Rather than slowing down, the actor says he is still eager to explore meaningful characters and stories.
His refusal to accept lifetime achievement awards sends a simple message—he believes his journey as an artist is still unfolding, and he isn’t ready to call it a career just yet.
