Shyam Benegal, a celebrated Indian filmmaker known for his groundbreaking contributions to cinema, has passed away at the age of 90. Benegal, who was a pioneer of the new wave cinema movement in the 1970s, succumbed to chronic kidney disease. His demise was confirmed by his daughter Piya.
Benegal was a multifaceted artist, excelling as a director, editor, and screenwriter. He is credited with introducing a new genre of filmmaking that delved into social issues and portrayed the struggles of ordinary people with raw authenticity.
Throughout his illustrious career, Benegal mentored several top Indian actors, including Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri, who went on to make significant contributions to Bollywood's popular cinema.
His impactful storytelling and cinematic vision earned him accolades from both the film industry and audiences alike. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, highlighting Benegal's profound impact on Indian cinema.
Benegal rose to prominence in the 1970s with a series of films that challenged the mainstream Bollywood narrative. Works such as 'Ankur,' 'Nishant,' 'Manthan,' and 'Bhumika' addressed the social realities of a developing nation, shedding light on issues like feudalism and cooperative movements.
One of Benegal's notable projects was the television series 'Bharat Ek Khoj,' which chronicled India's historical journey from ancient times to modernity. His directorial ventures extended beyond Indian borders, including a biopic on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the leader of Bangladesh's freedom struggle.
Benegal's early foray into cinema began in Hyderabad, where he established the Hyderabad Film Society. His diverse body of work spanned documentaries, advertising films, and feature films, showcasing his versatility and storytelling prowess.
Shyam Benegal leaves behind a lasting legacy in Indian cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers and artists. He is survived by his wife Nira Benegal and daughter Piya, as the film industry mourns the loss of a visionary storyteller.
