In a revealing and candid conversation, acclaimed actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub has opened up about his deliberate decision to step away from the glitz of big-budget, star-driven Bollywood productions. The actor, celebrated for his nuanced performances, stated that this strategic shift came after he felt his significant contributions in major films were largely ignored by both audiences and the media.
The Frustration Behind The Strategic Pivot
During an interview with Moneycontrol, Zeeshan Ayyub unpacked the core of his frustration. He described how, despite delivering memorable characters in films headlined by the industry's biggest stars, his work often received only passing mention. This consistent lack of recognition for his detailed craft led to a moment of introspection and a subsequent remodeling of his entire career approach.
The turning point came after his involvement in two high-profile projects: ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ starring Aamir Khan and ‘Zero’ featuring Shah Rukh Khan. In both cases, Ayyub felt that his substantial parts were merely "shrugged off with brief nods." He candidly admitted, "I didn’t get anything from those films. I was part of them, but the media and audience ignored my contribution." This experience was the catalyst for a more selective and purposeful phase in his career.
Embracing Ownership: The New Game Plan
Frustrated with being a footnote in blockbuster narratives, Ayyub made a conscious and definitive choice. He decided to pause selectively and commit only to handpicked opportunities where he could claim true ownership of his character. "I made a conscious decision, no more big-star films unless the character was strong and the responsibility was mine," he asserted.
This philosophy of prioritizing depth over dazzle meant rejecting numerous high-profile deals in the years following the Covid-19 pandemic. "For 2–3 years after Covid, I told myself: let’s not do big films, let’s find our space," the actor revealed. His new criterion is clear-cut: "If a story succeeds or fails, I should share the credit or blame. If I’m barely part of the screenplay, I don’t want to be there."
Finding His Space in Streaming and Character-Driven Stories
This bold stance, while potentially limiting his mainstream exposure, has sharpened his profile as a performer dedicated to his art. Zeeshan Ayyub has actively pivoted towards streaming content and narratives that demand authentic involvement. He cited his celebrated roles in films like ‘Raanjhanaa’ and ‘Tanu Weds Manu’ as examples of the detailed turns he seeks.
His commitment to this new path is highlighted by projects like a show where he plays a Kashmiri soccer mentor, a role that allowed him to engage deeply with a unique reimagining of the region. By stepping back from star-studded sets where his contributions risked being buried, Ayyub has chosen a road less traveled—one focused on artistic progress and genuine creative satisfaction over mere fame.
In conclusion, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub's journey reflects a growing sentiment among character actors seeking respect and recognition for their craft. His strategic shift from Bollywood's mega-wattage projects to stories offering true ownership marks a significant, self-aware evolution in his career, proving that for some artists, creative control is the ultimate reward.
