Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal passes away at 90

He has won 18 National Film Awards for his insightful, unique storytelling

Celebrated filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a towering figure in Indian cinema, has passed away at the age of 90 in Mumbai.

Renowned for pioneering parallel cinema, Benegal earned acclaim for blending realism and compelling storytelling in both art and mainstream films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

According to the Times of India, Benegal was the recipient of 18 National Film Awards, with his work standing out for its insightful social commentary and unique narrative style.

He helmed several critically acclaimed films, including the 2023 biopic "Mujib: The Making of a Nation", based on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri in 1976 and the Padma Bhushan in 1991 for his outstanding contributions.

His legacy includes iconic films such as Ankur (1973), Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), Bhumika (1977), Mammo (1994), Sardari Begum (1996), and Zubeidaa (2001), celebrated for their realistic portrayal of Indian society.

His passing marks the end of an era in Indian filmmaking.