Shyam Benegal: Indian filmmaker dies at 90

NEW DELHI –

Renowned Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a pioneer of the new wave cinema movement in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 90 after battling chronic kidney disease.

Benegal was a multifaceted talent, excelling as a director, editor, and screenwriter, and was instrumental in introducing a new genre of filmmaking to Indian cinema.

He breathed his last on Monday at Mumbai’s Wockhardt Hospital, with his cremation scheduled for Tuesday, as reported by the Press Trust of India news agency, quoting his daughter Piya.

“Benegal had been grappling with chronic kidney disease for several years, and unfortunately, it took a severe toll on his health leading to his demise,” Piya shared.

Condolences poured in for the legendary filmmaker on various social media platforms.

Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt praised Benegal for his realistic storytelling that delved into the struggles of ordinary people. “His films were raw, authentic, and carried a sense of conviction,” Bhatt wrote.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over Benegal’s demise, acknowledging his profound impact on Indian cinema. Modi tweeted, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shyam Benegal. His works will continue to inspire generations.”

Benegal played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of several top Indian actors, including Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri, who left an indelible mark on Bollywood.

“I have lost my mentor, a man who shaped my artistic journey in ways I cannot express,” shared Naseeruddin Shah.

Actor Manoj Bajpayee hailed Benegal as a visionary who revolutionized storytelling and left an enduring legacy.

In the 1970s, Benegal rose to prominence with groundbreaking films like “Ankur” (1974), “Nishant” (1975), “Manthan” (1976), and “Bhumika” (1977), which challenged the norms of mainstream Bollywood by shedding light on social realities and injustices.

His television series “Bharat Ek Khoj,” based on Jawaharlal Nehru’s book “Discovery of India,” meticulously chronicled the country’s historical journey from ancient times to modernity across 53 episodes.

Benegal also directed a biopic on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 2023, depicting the Bangladeshi leader’s role in the nation’s struggle for independence. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s daughter, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, sought refuge in India in August amid political turmoil.

Born in December 1934 in Hyderabad, Shyam Benegal embarked on his cinematic journey early in life. He graduated in Economics from Osmania University and founded the Hyderabad Film Society, venturing into advertising where he helmed numerous documentaries and advertising films.

Survived by his wife Nira Benegal and daughter Piya, Shyam Benegal leaves behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.