Faded, not forgotten: This Bengaluru auto driver once won a national award for starring in a Mira Nair film

DH Web Desk

Shafiq Syed, the child actor, was one of the buzzing names in early 90’s who made a huge impact with his debut performance. At just 12 years old, Shafiq captured hearts with his role as ‘Chapu’ in Mira Nair’s Salaam Bombay (1988).

|

Credit: IMDb

Surrounded by acclaimed actors like Nana Patekar, Irrfan, Raghuveer Yadav, and Anita Kanwar, Shafiq’s talent shone brightly. His performance in the film won him the National Film Award for 'Best Child Artist'.

|

Credit: IMDb

Shafiq’s remarkable talent had many convinced that he was on the path to becoming a big name in showbiz.

|

Credit: IMDb

In 1993, he returned to the screen with his second project, Patang, which starred Shabana Azmi in a key role.

|

Credit: IMDb

However, fate had other plans for him, as the once-buzzing name in the industry gradually disappeared from the limelight.

|

Credit: Instagram/@shafiq.syed.official

Due to lack of acting opportunities, Shafiq returned to Bengaluru, his hometown, leaving the film industry behind.

|

Credit: Instagram/@shafiq.syed.official

He tried to revive his career by working as a camera assistant on Kannada TV serials, but it didn’t quite take off.

|

Credit: Instagram/@shafiq.syed.official

The acclaimed National Award-winning actor now leads a humble life, earning a living by driving an auto-rickshaw for his family.

|

Credit: Instagram/@shafiq.syed.official

Shafiq Syed once shared in an interview, "I used to have no responsibilities, but today, I carry the whole burden of my family."

|

Credit: Special Arrangement

Shafiq Syed has documented his journey in a 180-page autobiography, titled After Salaam Bombay. Meanwhile, he aspires his life to be made into a film, saying, "My Salaam Bombay will be more genuine than Slumdog Millionaire."

|

Credit: Instagram/@shafiq.syed.official