Says Kashmir needs its own film industry to create opportunities for young talent
Srinagar, Apr 06: Karnah, a remote border town in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, has found a place on the Bollywood map through one of its own. Naseem Mughal, also known as Waseem, is drawing national attention after his role as “Lulli Dakait” in the blockbuster film “Dhurandhar” (2025) and its sequel “Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge” (2026).
More than a decade ago, Mughal left his village, Prada in Karnah, with a simple goal: to act. With no industry support, no mentor, and no clear direction, he arrived in Mumbai, where success did not come easily. He spent years attending auditions, taking minor roles, and learning how the system worked, staying on despite many failed attempts.
Speaking to local media, Mughal said that before reaching the big screen, he built his base through television. For over 13 years, he worked on TV and small projects, becoming known to many viewers as Manu Bhai, a mechanic, in the popular sitcom “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.” He also appeared in shows and series like “Guns and Gulaabs,” “Checkmate,” and “Inside Edge 3,” slowly shaping his career.
His breakthrough came through an audition where the casting team selected him for the role of Lulli Dakait, a violent and obsessive member of Babu Dakait’s gang. Though the role was brief, his intense and unsettling screen presence left a strong impact. Soon after the film’s release, clips of his scenes went viral on social media, with many viewers describing him as a breakout face from the ensemble cast.
Mughal speaks honestly about his background. Coming from a small village with no backup, his family wanted him to choose a stable career like the army or police. He chose acting instead. Over time, as work came, doubt turned into pride, and today his family and village stand firmly behind him.
Despite his success, Mughal remains deeply connected to Kashmir. He says he misses home, its culture, and its people every day. At the same time, he raises a larger concern: Kashmir lacks its own strong film industry, a gap he believes limits opportunities for young talent. A local industry, he says, could create jobs and open doors for many.
He credits Bollywood for giving him a platform. “The industry gave me identity, income, and respect. It is my second home,” he said.
Recently, Mughal also made headlines for speaking out on the film’s reception. Responding to claims that labelled the film as propaganda, he defended the project and its success. He said the scale of public response shows that “you cannot stop the storm”, pointing to the film’s strong box office performance.
Mughal’s message to young people is direct: follow what you truly want to do, stay committed, and do not approach your goals half-heartedly. At the same time, he added, understand responsibility towards family and life.
