At some point, every actor encounters the inevitable discovery of a doppelganger. For casual doomscrollers, it’s no surprise that Hollywood stars like Isla Fisher and Amy Adams are often compared due to their striking resemblance. Closer to home, Pakistani actor Saleem Mairaj has faced a similar situation, frequently being likened to Bollywood’s Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
During a recent appearance on Gup Shab, Mairaj was once again asked about this comparison when a viewer inquired, “Do you see it as a compliment or an unnecessary comparison?” The actor, familiar with the question, responded without hesitation.
“I think I’ve been asked this over 200 times,” Mairaj said, a mix of amusement and weariness in his voice. “Honestly, I don’t see the resemblance, and I can’t understand why people make that comparison.”
In his usual lighthearted manner, he shared a funny story: “I was at the passport office when two women in line who had just watched Bajrangi Bhaijaan the night before looked at me. One said to the other, ‘Look! There’s that man from the film we saw last night!’”
With playful indignation, Mairaj added, “They didn’t recognize Saleem Mairaj right in front of them, but they were convinced they saw Nawazuddin Siddiqui!”
While Mairaj may not perceive the similarity, many others do see a resemblance between him and Siddiqui. Nawazuddin Siddiqui gained fame for his powerful performances, particularly in Gangs of Wasseypur, and continues to showcase his talent in films like Tiku Weds Sheru.
Saleem Mairaj, on the other hand, has made a name for himself in Pakistan’s entertainment scene. Starting in theatre, he transitioned to television in the 1990s and debuted in film with Zibahkhana in 2007. His roles in Na Maloom Afraad (2014), its sequel, and the upcoming Na Baligh Afraad (2024) have solidified his status in Pakistani cinema.
Despite ongoing comparisons, both Mairaj and Siddiqui are celebrated for their unique talents, each leaving a distinct mark on their respective industries.
