The world of Indian cinema mourns the loss of Shyam Benegal, the iconic filmmaker and pioneer of India’s parallel cinema movement, who passed away at the age of 90. Benegal breathed his last at Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai around 6:30 pm on December 23, 2024. His daughter, Pia Benegal, confirmed the news, revealing that he had been battling chronic kidney disease for several days before his passing.
SOURCE : ZEE
Born on December 14, 1934, in Hyderabad, Benegal hailed from a Konkani-speaking Chitrapur Saraswat Brahmin family. His father, Sridhar B. Benegal, was a photographer who inspired Shyam’s early interest in filmmaking. At the tender age of 12, Shyam created his first film using a camera gifted by his father. He later earned a Master’s degree in Economics from Osmania University, Hyderabad, where he also founded the Hyderabad Film Society, marking the beginning of his illustrious journey in cinema.
Source:- bbc news
Benegal’s directorial debut came with the critically acclaimed film “Ankur” in 1974, starring Anant Nag and Shabana Azmi. The film won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film, solidifying Benegal’s reputation as a trailblazer in Indian cinema. Over his illustrious career, he directed masterpieces such as “Nishant” (1975), “Manthan” (1976), “Bhumika” (1977), “Mammo” (1994), “Sardari Begum” (1996), and “Zubeidaa” (2001). His work was celebrated for its deep social commentary and realistic portrayal of Indian society.
Benegal’s contributions to Indian cinema were recognized by the Government of India with the Padma Shri in 1976 and the Padma Bhushan in 1991. He was also the recipient of multiple National Awards for films including “Bhumika: The Role,” “Junoon,” “Arohan,” “Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero,” and “Well Done Abba.” His final directorial work, “Mujib: The Making of a Nation” (2023), chronicled the life of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The film fraternity and fans have been pouring in tributes for the legendary filmmaker. Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur paid a heartfelt tribute, saying, “He created ‘the new wave’ cinema. #ShyamBenegal will always be remembered as the man that changed the direction of Indian Cinema with films like Ankur, Manthan, and countless others. He created stars out of great actors like Shabana Azmi and Smita Patil. Farewell my friend and guide.” Politician and author Shashi Tharoor also expressed his grief, sharing a personal connection, “Mourning the passing of #ShyamBenegal, a giant of India’s New Wave cinema. My sisters and I knew him since our childhood when he photographed them as the first ‘Amul Babies.’ His impact will endure, but his passing is an immense loss, for cinema and humanity.”
Benegal’s 90th birthday celebration on December 14 was a grand gathering of close friends and family, including stalwarts like Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, and many others, who honored the director for his incredible contributions to cinema. The event was filled with warmth and nostalgia, as attendees reminisced about Benegal’s remarkable journey and his impact on Indian cinema.
As the film fraternity and fans mourn his passing, his timeless work continues to inspire, ensuring his legacy lives on. Benegal’s films will forever be remembered for their realism, depth, and storytelling excellence, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
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