Recently, Anurag Kashyap revealed in an interview that celebrity designers had refused to make a suit for Nawazuddin Siddiqui for the 2012 Cannes Directors' Fortnight, where their film Gangs of Wasseypur was being screened, due to Siddiqui's appearance. Reflecting on this, Siddiqui shared his thoughts on Kashyap's significance in his career, spanning over 25 years. Despite the hurt caused by such rejections, Siddiqui expressed gratitude for the recognition of his talent and the love he now receives from audiences. Speaking to Indian Express, he recalled, "Of course, I was hurt that people have that kind of approach to an actor." He emphasised that it was Kashyap who introduced him to a broader platform and opened doors to international acclaim.

Despite their limited personal interaction, Siddiqui holds Kashyap in high regard. Siddiqui recounted their unique dynamic, saying, “Anurag and I are not even friends, frankly speaking. If we sit together we might not even talk to each other for hours. We are like that." He further shared, "We have flown together, travelled together for five to six hours without saying a word. We don’t talk much. But Anurag has a special place in my heart.”