/> Naseeruddin Shah will have two releases on the same day, March 20: FIRAAQ and BARAH AANA. Incidentally, both are helmed by first-time directors -- Nandita Das and Raja Menon, respectively.

In fact, Naseer's last few films (A WEDNESDAY and JAANE TU... YA JAANE NA) were helmed by first-time directors as well. Quite a coincidence, isn't it?

"That's not new, " the veteran corrects me, "I've acted with new directors from the beginning of my career. Right from Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani to the new names today. Actually, I am more comfortable with newcomers. Unke peth mein aag hain, they are ready to take risks and if you notice, their first films are always their best."

But first-timers could be intimidated by his personality, his body of work?

"May be, " he retorts. So who breaks the ice? "It happens gradually. Of course, you don't get into backslapping terms, but a comfort level develops once you start working, " he says.

First-time director Raja Menon (BARAH AANA) was nervous when he approached Naseer to act in his film. "I loved the script. You know something, main dil se soochta hoon.

I loved the story and I decided to be a part of the film. And I am glad I did the film because Raja is clear about what he wants and he has executed the subject well, " Naseer states.

Naseer tried his hand at direction a few years ago (YUN HOTA TO KYA HOTA... WHAT IF?), isn't he planning to direct his second film now? "No, I am not interested. It's a tough job. It takes away too much from you. I am not cut out for film direction, " he clarifies.