Mumbai: Celebrated filmmaker Shyam Benegal, known as the architect of Indian parallel cinema, passed away at the age of 90 after a prolonged illness. The news of his demise was confirmed by his daughter, Pia Benegal, leaving the film fraternity and his admirers in deep mourning.
Benegal’s career, spanning over five decades, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. The iconic director, renowned for his nuanced storytelling and socially relevant themes, was a recipient of some of India’s highest civilian honors. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1976 and the Padma Bhushan in 1991 for his unparalleled contributions to the arts.
A pioneer of the New Wave movement in Indian cinema, Benegal gave the industry films like Ankur (1974), Nishant (1975), and Manthan (1976), each of which broke away from commercial norms and portrayed the struggles and aspirations of ordinary Indians. His work brought several actors, including Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri, into the limelight.
Benegal’s illness had kept him away from the public eye in recent years, but his legacy continues to inspire filmmakers across generations. Tributes are pouring in from colleagues, admirers, and fans worldwide, celebrating his life and work as a guiding light in Indian cinema.
Stay tuned for updates on tributes and memorial plans for this extraordinary visionary.
