Archive · 20 Sep 2026
The Lunch Box Turns 13 as Nawazuddin Revisits Aslam Shaikh
The Lunchbox is a film about people who form a connection after a lunchbox is delivered to the wrong person.
It was directed by Ritesh Batra and released in 2013.
Irrfan Khan played a lonely widower named Saajan.
Nimrat Kaur played Ila, whose lunchbox accidentally reached Saajan.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui played Saajan’s young colleague, Shaikh.
The film became popular in India and internationally.
It also premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2013.
Nawazuddin said he liked playing Aslam Shaikh because the character was practical, independent and able to face sadness.
The film completed 13 years on September 20.
The Lunchbox completed 13 years on September 20.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui said Aslam Shaikh was unlike any character he had previously played.
He was drawn to Aslam’s practical, independent and resilient personality.
Ritesh Batra directed the 2013 film starring Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
The film earned international acclaim after premiering at the Cannes Film Festival’s Critics’ Week in 2013.
- Who
- Nawazuddin Siddiqui discussed his character Aslam Shaikh in The Lunchbox, which also starred Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur.
- What
- The Lunchbox marked its 13th anniversary, prompting Nawazuddin Siddiqui to reflect on his role.
- When
- September 20; the film was released in 2013.
- Where
- The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival’s Critics’ Week.
- Why
- Nawazuddin said Aslam’s practical, independent and resilient qualities drew him to the role.
- Film
- The Lunchbox
- Director
- Ritesh Batra
- Release year
- 2013
- Anniversary
- 13 years on September 20
- Lead cast
- Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui
- Nawazuddin’s character
- Aslam Shaikh
- International premiere
- Cannes Film Festival’s Critics’ Week in 2013