Filmmaker Shyam Benegal passed away on Monday at the age of 90, reported NDTV. He was known for directing films like Ankur, Nishant, Manthan, Junoon, Bhumika, and Mandi.
The filmmaker was a pioneer of the Indian parallel cinema movement in the 1970s and 1980s, creating a body of work known for his realistic storytelling and profound social commentary.
Shyam debuted his five-decade career in 1974 with ‘Ankur.’ Following which he gave films like ‘Nishant,’ ‘Manthan,’ and ‘Bhumika’ that solidified his reputation as a masterful director. After making several other critically acclaimed films, his last release was Mujib: The Making of a Nation, which was released in 2024.
His films were often known for their realism and social commentary and for breaking away from the conventions of mainstream Indian cinema.
Shyam Benegal is regarded as the pioneer of parallel cinema and has received several accolades, like the Dadasahed Phalke Award, 18 National Film Awards, and a Nandi award. In 1976, he was also honoured by the Indian government with the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian honour of the country. He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honour, for his contribution in the field of arts.
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