Shyam Benegal: The OG of Indian Parallel Cinema (1934-2024)

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Shyam Benegal: The OG of Indian Parallel Cinema (1934-2024)

Shyam Benegal, the ultimate game-changer ๐ŸŽฌ of Indian parallel cinema, passed away on December 23, 2024, at the age of 90 in Mumbai. Known for keeping it real with his films, Benegal was the master of blending hard-hitting social commentary with artistic storytelling ✨. He leaves behind his wife, Nira ❤️, and daughter, Pia.

Born on December 14, 1934, in Hyderabad, Benegal’s journey from a copywriter to an iconic filmmaker was legendary ๐Ÿ’ช. He kickstarted the Indian New Wave ๐ŸŒŠ with Ankur (1973), followed by hits like Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), and Bhumika (1977). His work gave us gritty realism and showcased voices that needed to be heard ๐ŸŽฅ.

Apart from films, he slayed TV ๐Ÿ“บ with shows like Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan. He bagged 18 National Film Awards ๐Ÿ†, Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award – basically, he was showered with every major accolade there is ๐ŸŒŸ.

Even while battling chronic kidney disease ๐Ÿฅ, he kept his hustle going ๐Ÿ”ฅ. His last project, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), proved that passion doesn’t age ๐Ÿ’ฏ. A mentor, teacher, and eternal storyteller, Benegal inspired generations and will always be remembered as a cultural icon ๐ŸŒŸ✨.

Venkataramanan Ramasethu
December 23, 2024

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