Siddique
Biography
Siddique is an acclaimed Indian actor and producer best known for his extensive work in Malayalam cinema, with a career spanning over three decades. Born on 1 October 1959 in Edavanakkad, Ernakulam, Kerala, he has appeared in more than 350 Malayalam films, while also making notable contributions to Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema. His versatility as an artist has earned him recognition for portraying everything from light-hearted comic roles to intense villains and character-driven performances.
Early Life and Education
Siddique grew up as the youngest of three children. He completed his schooling in Edavanakkad and later earned a Diploma in Electrical Engineering from Government Polytechnic College, Kalamassery. Before entering films, he worked as an electrical engineer with the Kerala State Electricity Board in Thrissur and later took up employment in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. His elder brother, Abdul Majeed, is also an actor in Malayalam cinema.
Entry into Films
Siddique began his acting journey in the late 1980s with small roles. His breakthrough came with “In Harihar Nagar” (1990), where he starred alongside Mukesh, Jagadeesh, and Asokan. The film’s massive success not only made him a household name but also shaped the era of low-budget comedy entertainers in Malayalam cinema. During the early 1990s, he became synonymous with humorous roles in films such as:
Godfather
Manthrikacheppu
Simhavalan Menon
Kasargode Khadarbhai
Mughamudra
Welcome to Kodaikanal
His chemistry with co-stars Mukesh and Jagadeesh became a highlight of several comic hits of that decade.
Shift to Serious and Villain Roles
In the late 1990s, Siddique showcased his dramatic range with powerful performances in Asuravamsam and Lelam (both 1997). He gained further acclaim after playing a memorable antagonist in Sathyameva Jayathe (2001), which led to a series of similar strong negative roles. His portrayals combined intensity and subtlety, earning him respect as a character actor.
Awards and Achievements
Siddique’s talent has been recognized with prestigious awards, including:
Kerala State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor (2004) for Sasneham Sumitra and Choonda
Nandi Special Jury Award (2013) for Naa Bangaaru Talli
He also ventured into film production, co-producing the critically acclaimed Malayalam film Nandanam (2002) under the banner Bhavana Cinema.
Legacy
From comedic hero to compelling villain, Siddique has successfully reinvented himself throughout his career. His ability to adapt to any genre—comedy, romance, action, or drama—makes him one of Malayalam cinema’s most enduring and respected actors. With a filmography rich in diversity and depth, Siddique continues to be a significant force in Indian cinema.