Celebrated filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a luminary of Indian cinema and a pioneer of the parallel film movement, passed away on Monday at the age of 90. He breathed his last at 6:38 pm at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, where he was undergoing treatment for chronic kidney disease.
Tributes poured in from across the nation, with political leaders, celebrities, and admirers mourning the loss of a visionary storyteller whose works redefined Indian cinema.
PM Modi’s Tribute
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter):
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Shyam Benegal Ji, whose storytelling had a profound impact on Indian cinema. His works will continue to be admired by people from different walks of life. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Remembering Shyam Benegal’s Legacy
Trailblazer of Parallel Cinema
- Benegal, known for masterpieces such as “Ankur” (1974), “Manthan” (1976), “Mandi” (1983), and “Junoon” (1978), played a pivotal role in establishing the parallel cinema movement in India.
- His films explored themes of realism and social justice, bringing the lives of the common man to the silver screen with unparalleled authenticity.
A Lifelong Passion for Filmmaking
- Born into a Karnataka Konkani family, Benegal’s passion for storytelling began at the age of 12, with a camera gifted by his father.
- Beyond feature films, he left a remarkable legacy in documentaries, advertisements, and television series, including the acclaimed “Bharat Ek Khoj” based on Jawaharlal Nehru’s Discovery of India.
Nationwide Tributes
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis
Fadnavis highlighted Benegal’s invaluable contributions:
- Recognized his ability to transform Indian cinema through a modern and realistic lens.
- Praised his unique presentation style in films and documentaries.
- Described Benegal as a guide whose influence continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers.
“With his death, a guide of Indian cinema has gone beyond the veil of time. His death has caused an irreparable loss to the film production and art sector.”
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee described Benegal as a “pillar of Indian parallel cinema”, expressing deep sorrow over his demise.
“My condolences to his family, friends, and followers.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge
Kharge lauded Benegal’s commitment to social issues and groundbreaking storytelling:
“His tremendous contributions to the art form, marked by thought-provoking storytelling and a profound commitment to social issues, leave an indelible mark.”
The End of an Era
Shyam Benegal’s passing marks the conclusion of a prolific career that elevated Indian cinema on the global stage. His legacy lives on through his pathbreaking films and the generations of filmmakers inspired by his vision.
May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.