Shyam Benegal, the iconic filmmaker and visionary behind some of the most influential films in Indian cinema, passed away on December 23, 2024, at the age of 90. His death followed a long battle with chronic kidney disease. He passed away at Mumbai’s Wockhardt Hospital at 6:38 pm. His daughter, Pia Benegal, confirmed that his health had worsened despite years of treatment, including dialysis. Benegal, who had celebrated his 90th birthday just nine days prior, was surrounded by colleagues and actors who had worked with him over the decades, such as Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, and Smita Patil.
Benegal’s career spanned nearly seven decades, during which he played a pivotal role in revolutionizing Hindi cinema. A key figure in the parallel cinema movement of the 1970s and 1980s, his films were known for their social realism, profound storytelling, and complex issues. His most famous works include Ankur (1974), which marked the debut of Shabana Azmi, Manthan (1976), Bhumika (1977), and Arohan (1982). His films often addressed rural distress, social injustice, feminist themes, and the intricacies of human relationships.
Benegal’s influence extended beyond feature films. He made significant contributions to Indian television, notably with Bharat Ek Khoj, a 53-episode adaptation of Jawaharlal Nehru’s Discovery of India, and Samvidhaan, a series on the making of India’s Constitution. His recent works, including the biographical Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), showcased his ability to tackle historical subjects with depth and compassion. He was also working on several projects which remain unrealized.
His films not only brought forward compelling narratives but also discovered and nurtured some of India’s finest actors, including Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and many others, who acknowledged Benegal as a strong guiding force in their careers. His ability to bring authenticity to the screen made him a well loved and respected figure in Indian cinema.
Tributes poured in from across the country and the world. President Droupadi Murmu expressed her sorrow, noting that Benegal’s passing marked the end of a glorious chapter in Indian cinema. She recognized his extraordinary contribution to filmmaking, which had not only crafted timeless classics but also shaped a generation of artists. Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur hailed Benegal for creating ‘new wave’ cinema and revolutionizing Hindi film direction with his bold narratives and exploration of social issues.
Despite his declining health, Benegal remained passionate about his craft until the end. He once remarked on his 90th birthday, “I’m working on two to three projects. They are all for the big screen,” reflecting his all time dedication to filmmaking. Shyam Benegal’s legacy will forever be embedded in the history of Indian cinema, as he leaves behind a body of work that changed the direction of Hindi filmmaking and set new standards for storytelling. His passing is a monumental loss, but his influence will continue to inspire filmmakers for generations to come.
