New Delhi. Famous Hindi film director Shyam Benegal has passed away. He was suffering from kidney related disease for a long time and was also undergoing dialysis. His family friend and filmmaker Atul Tiwari has confirmed his death. Shyam Benegal turned 90 on the 14th of this month. On the same day of his birthday, the book ‘Maestro-A Tribute to Shyam Benegal at 90’ written by Atul Tiwari was also released. The video of Shyam Benegal cutting the cake with family and others was also shared on social media.
What a joy to celebrate Shyam Benegal’s 90th birthday today with the launch of the book “Maestro – A Tribute to Shyam Benegal at 90” written by actor and screenwriter Atul Tiwari about one of India’s most significant filmmakers.. Happy Birthday Mr. Benegal and here’s to many more pic.twitter.com/30zZ1Pymkf
— Film Heritage Foundation (@FHF_Official) December 14, 2024
Record of winning most national awards
Shyam Benegal has received the National Award 8 times for his films. This is a record in itself. Apart from this, he has also been honored with Dadasaheb Phalke Award. In the year 1976, he was also given the prestigious honor of Padmashree. He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1991. Shyam Benegal has directed many great films like Zubaida, The Making of the Mahatma, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero, Mandi, Aarohan, Welcome to Sajjanpur. The serial ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ was also made by Shyam Benegal.
Last photo taken of Shyam Benegal on his birthday
Gave break to many great artists
Born on 14 December 1934 in a middle-class family in Hyderabad, Shyam Benegal produced his first film ‘Ankur’ in 1974. Anant Nag and Shabana Azmi worked in this film. It was nominated for the Golden Bear at the 24th Berlin International Film Festival. The film, which dealt with serious issues like feudalism and sexual harassment, was based on a true incident. Shyam Benegal gave a break to many famous actors of Hindi cinema, Amrish Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Anant Nag, Smita Patil, Shabana Azmi. It was he who also gave the opportunity to famous cinematographer Govind Nihalani to work for the first time.
