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 🎬 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 💪. He kickstarted the Indian New Wave 🌊 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 🎥.

Apart from films, he slayed TV 📺 with shows like Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan. He bagged 18 National Film Awards 🏆, Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award – basically, he was showered with every major accolade there is 🌟.

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

Venkataramanan Ramasethu
December 23, 2024

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