Nawazuddin Siddiqui has always won our hearts with his stellar acting and flawless performances. Be it a one-minute role or a full-fledged biopic, the versatility king of Bollywood leaves no stone unturned to give it his best short and make his role remarkable.

Yet again, he has managed to leave an impression on our minds and hearts with his breathtaking portrayal of Bal Thackeray in his recently released film Thackeray. Critics and audience are hailing the actor for pulling the character with panache and for bringing back Thackeray to life. Compliments are pouring in from all across with many declaring Thackeray as Nawaz’s career-best performance.

Interestingly, despite getting 1300 screens and having a budget of 20 crores including the publicity and adversity, Thackeray has emerged out as a winner at the box office with opening day collection of Rs 6 crores (Hindi + Marathi) as compared to Kangana Ranaut’s Manikarnika that got around 3000 screens and was made with a huge budget of 120 crores.

Thackeray is also dominating several markets PAN India, the film has also emerged as Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s biggest and highest opener ever. The film is expected to grow substantially over the weekend.

Here are a few unmissable comments from critics who watched the film and can’t stop raving about Nawaz:

“Nawazuddin Siddiqui absolutely nails it – another glowing feather in a bulging cap. He is so good that the film needs nobody else to propel it forward.” – NDTV

“Nawazuddin Siddiqui who breathes life, and fire, into the character of the controversial Hindutva leader. He has big shoes to fill but he slips into Thackeray’s skin – impassive, impenetrable at times, walking fearlessly into situations, capturing the magnetism and mannerisms of Thackeray, from his love for cricket, his beer-swilling, cigar-smoking, a satin-kurta persona to the indulgent family man. It’s a gripping performance, and the film stands on his shoulders.” – News18

“What works wonderfully for the film is Nawazuddin’s performance as Bal Thackeray. The fact that the actor doesn’t try to modulate his voice or pickup a Marathi accent is a wise decision. With deft nuance and the assistance of minimal makeup, Nawaz transforms into the Shiv Sena chief and delivers a pitch-perfect portrayal.” – Times of India

“Nawazuddin is first-rate. His petite physical form is quite close to that of the Sena supremo. Without too much ado, he borrows the leader’s mannerisms and his demeanor, convincing you that you are seated in Thackeray’s darbar.” – DNA

“Nawazuddin Siddiqui shines out as ‘Thackeray’. He has yet again proven that he can take off any role with perfection. He had essayed the role of Thackeray very impressively.” – India Forums