Athar Nawaaz

Athar Nawaaz is an Indian actor, writer, and director. He was born on February 25, 1953, in the city of Lucknow, India, the proud offspring of Shri Hafiz Abdul Ali and Smt. Zaibunnisa. Raised in a sprawling family with seven brothers and one sister, Athar's formative years were steeped in the rich tapestry of family bonds and values. Athar Nawaaz embarked on his educational journey with unwavering determination. His quest for knowledge led him to attain a Master's Degree in Sociology from the esteemed Lucknow University. This academic foundation would later prove instrumental in his insightful interpretations of the human condition in his writing and performances." The seeds of Athar's passion for the dramatic arts were sown in Lucknow, where he embarked on a transformative journey of artistic self-discovery. Under the mentorship of the revered Shri Raj Bisaria, Athar Nawaaz cultivated his acting prowess at the renowned Theatre Art Workshop. Here, he learned the nuances of the craft and honed his abilities to bring characters to life on stage. Furthering his commitment to the dramatic arts, Athar pursued a comprehensive course at Bhartendu Natya Kendra, an institution backed by the U.P. State Government. This provided him with a holistic understanding of the theatrical world. Athar's thirst for knowledge and passion for acting led him to complete a one-year course in film acting at the Lucknow Film & Television Institute, where he benefited from the guidance of Shri Jaghirdar, a veteran actor. This training equipped him with the skills needed to excel in the dynamic world of cinema." "Athar Nawaaz's early career in Lucknow's theatre scene was marked by outstanding performances in a variety of plays. Audiences were enthralled by his talent and dedication in productions such as "Suno Janm-e-Jay," "Antigone," "Bahot Bada Sawal," "Ek Aur Dronacharya," and "Andhere Mein. Athar Nawaaz's artistic journey took a thrilling turn when he was transferred to the SBI Head Office in Bombay while working in SBI Lucknow. In Mumbai, he embraced fresh opportunities and soared to new heights. Athar had the fortune of crossing paths with the legendary Khwaja Ahmed Abbas, which led to his cinematic debut in the film "Naxalite," where he shared the screen with acclaimed actors Mithun Chakravarty and Smita Patil. This marked the inception of his illustrious film career. Athar Nawaaz's creative genius extended beyond acting as he directed and adapted Abbas Saheb's short stories into a captivating play titled "Ek Gadi Teen Pahiye Aur Duniya Bhar Ka Kachra." The production received critical acclaim and graced the stages of Prithvi Theatre, produced under the patronage of the venerable K.A. Abbas. In Mumbai, Athar found his artistic home with the prestigious theatre group, MAJMA, where he collaborated with legendary luminaries such as Om Puri and Naseeruddin Shah. This artistic alliance enriched his skills and deepened his profound love for the theatrical medium. Athar Nawaaz is not only a luminary in the world of arts but also a devoted family man. His unwavering support system includes his beloved spouse, Dr. Basera Nawaaz, and their cherished children, Nasir Nawaaz and Nahid Nawaaz. This family unit has been a constant source of strength throughout his illustrious career. In the annals of Indian cinema and theatre, Athar Nawaaz's name is etched as a beacon of brilliance. His journey from the heart of Lucknow to the glitzy streets of Mumbai serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, showcasing the power of passion, commitment, and unwavering dedication to the craft. Athar Nawaaz's legacy continues to shine brightly as he captivates audiences with his unparalleled talent and profound storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the world of arts. In Mumbai, while working for films and television, Athar continued with his first love of theatre, along with Om Puri and Naseeruddin Shah as an actor and director. He acted in and directed plays such as 'Uddhwast Dharamshala' (Directed by Om Puri), 'Bichchhoo' (Directed by Ranjit Kapoor), 'Janta Ka Dushman' (Directed by Ranjit Kapoor), 'Panchwan Sawar' (Directed by Naseeruddin Shah), 'Andhon Ka Haathi' (Directed and acted), 'Jaat Na Poochho Sadhu Ki' (Directed and acted), 'Vasnakaand' (Directed by Sai Paranjpe), 'Barrister' (Directed and acted), and 'VIDHAAN,' a play, he directed, produced, and acted as the main protagonist. This was an adaptation of 'Detective Story' by Sidney Kingsley.