Nawazuddin finds Nandita Das a capable director

Acclaimed actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who will be playing the titular character in Nandita Das's Manto, has praised her capability as a director.

At an interaction here, Siddiqui was asked about his forthcoming projects. He said: "I am doing Manto with Nandita Das. Of course, Nandita is a very capable director."

The 42-year-old actor is working for the second time with the actress-turned-director after Firaaq (2008), which marked Das's foray behind the camera. A political thriller, it was lauded by critics.

In Manto, which is based on the life of legendary writer Saadat Hasan Manto -- known for his vast output of short stories, novels, radio plays, essays and personal sketches -- Siddiqui is paired with Rasika Dugal.

Expressing his view on Manto the writer, Siddiqui said: "In my view, Manto is one of the greatest writers in the world of that time when our Hindi film Industry just began. After Partition, he shifted to Pakistan. The film will depict his life span after shifting to Pakistan to the end."

That apart, Siddiqui is set for his next release Freaky Ali, which revolves around a layman who turns into a professional golfer. The romantic comedy sports drama is directed by Sohail Khan and also features Amy Jackson and Arbaaz Khan in lead roles. It is set to be released on September 9.