Veteran actor and former MP Paresh Rawal believes that criticism, even when aimed at the ruling government, should not be dismissed, especially when it comes from respected peers like Naseeruddin Shah, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan.
Paresh Rawal welcomes criticism, even from within the industry
In a recent interview with The Lallantop,
Paresh
said he holds these actors in high regard and is always open to hearing their concerns. "If Naseer bhai, Aamir, or Shah Rukh have something to say, I can’t discard that. I’ll listen to them because they have no hidden agenda, they have no axe to grind. They’re saying it for my own benefit. So I’ll listen, introspect, and try to improve. It doesn’t make a difference. I respect them, they love me," he shared.
Paresh Rawal praises Naseeruddin Shah for his honesty
Paresh Rawal particularly praised Naseeruddin Shah for always speaking his mind. He noted that such honesty creates a sense of safety and trust. “You feel very safe and satisfied around people like these. Otherwise, you can’t keep looking over your shoulder again and again,” he added.
Naseeruddin Shah, who is known for his outspoken views, has often criticized the ruling government, especially on issues related to minority rights. Despite political differences, Paresh Rawal considers Naseeruddin an idol and has enjoyed a long professional relationship with him, collaborating on stage in the play The Sleuth and sharing screen space in films like Mahesh Bhatt’s Sir. They also worked together when Shah directed Yun Hota Toh Kya Hota in 2006.
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Aamir Khan, another actor Rawal respects deeply, sparked national conversation in 2015 when he voiced concerns about rising
religious intolerance in India
, mentioning he even considered leaving the country for the safety of his son, Azad. Rawal and Khan have memorable collaborations, notably in cult classics like Andaz Apna Apna and Akele Hum Akele Tum.
Similarly, Shah Rukh Khan addressed concerns over growing intolerance during the same period, emphasizing that a true patriot must defend secularism. Paresh Rawal has shared the screen with SRK in films like Maya Memsaab and Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani.