Shyam Benegal, pioneer of Indian parallel cinema, passes away at 90
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Renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a towering figure in Indian parallel cinema known for his realism and poignant social commentary, has passed away at the age of 90.
He died at Mumbai's Wockhardt Hospital on December 18, just days after celebrating his milestone birthday on December 14.
Benegal, who had been battling chronic kidney disease for years, was undergoing regular dialysis. His daughter, Pia Benegal, confirmed his passing, stating, "He passed away at 6:38 pm due to complications from chronic kidney disease."
Despite his health challenges, Benegal remained dedicated to his craft until the very end. On his 90th birthday, he shared his ongoing enthusiasm for filmmaking, saying, "I'm working on two to three projects; they are all for the big screen."
Born in Hyderabad, Benegal was the son of Sridhar B Benegal, a noted photographer, and a second cousin to legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt. He began his career as a copywriter before venturing into filmmaking with his first documentary, Gher Betha Ganga (1962).
Benegal made his mark as a pioneer of the Indian new wave cinema with his debut feature film, Ankur (1973). This was followed by acclaimed works such as Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), and Bhumika (1977), all of which delved into complex social issues.
Throughout his illustrious career, Benegal created a rich tapestry of films, documentaries, and television series, including the classics Mandi, Junoon, Suraj Ka Satvaan Ghoda, Mammo, and Sardari Begum. His television work, particularly Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan, is celebrated for its historical depth and storytelling.
Benegal also served as the Director of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) from 1980 to 1986, further shaping the Indian film industry. His most recent work, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), was a biographical film on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, reflecting his enduring passion for impactful cinema.
Benegal's contribution to Indian cinema remains unparalleled, with his films continuing to inspire and resonate with audiences. He is survived by his wife, Nira Benegal, and daughter, Pia Benegal.