Renowned Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal, celebrated as a pioneer of parallel cinema in the 1970s and 1980s, passed away at the age of 90.
Known for his realistic storytelling and socially conscious themes, Benegal’s demise marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.
His daughter, Pia Benegal, confirmed the news, revealing that he succumbed to chronic kidney disease at Mumbai’s Wockhardt Hospital on Monday evening. "He passed away at 6:38pm. He had been suffering for several years, and the condition had worsened," she shared.
The director had celebrated his 90th birthday just days earlier, on December 14, surrounded by family and close friends, including actors Shabana Azmi and Naseeruddin Shah.
Trailblazing career
Benegal’s illustrious career was marked by critically acclaimed films such as Ankur, Bhumika, Manthan, and Nishant. He played a pivotal role in shaping India’s new wave cinema, using film as a medium for social commentary. His works garnered multiple National Film Awards, including honours for Bhumika: The Role (1977), Junoon (1978), Manthan (1976), and Well Done Abba (2010).
In addition to feature films, Benegal made impactful television serials, including Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan. His work extended to documentaries and cultural projects that reflected his deep understanding of Indian society.
Earlier this year, a restored version of his film Manthan was screened at the Cannes Film Festival under the Cannes Classics segment, bringing global recognition to his legacy.
A life dedicated to cinema
Born in Hyderabad, Benegal was the son of Sridhar B Benegal, a renowned photographer. He began his career as a copywriter and made his first documentary, Gher Betha Ganga, in 1962. His debut feature film, Ankur (1973), set the stage for a series of masterpieces that would redefine Indian cinema.
Benegal also served as the director of the National Film Development Corporation between 1980 and 1986, contributing significantly to the development of the Indian film industry.
Despite health challenges in recent years, including thrice-weekly dialysis, Benegal remained committed to filmmaking. On his 90th birthday, he shared his plans for several ongoing projects, saying, "I’m working on two or three ideas, all for the big screen."
Lasting legacy
Benegal’s most recent work, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), reflects his enduring passion for storytelling. He is survived by his wife, Nira Benegal, and daughter, Pia Benegal.
As tributes pour in, the film fraternity remembers Shyam Benegal as a visionary who championed cinema as a force for cultural and social change. His contribution to Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations to come.
