Shyam Benegal, the celebrated Indian filmmaker known for pioneering a movement in cinema that addressed social issues in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 90 due to chronic kidney disease.
Benegal, recognized for his work as a director, editor, and screenwriter, rose to fame with impactful films like Ankur (1974), Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), and Bhumika (1977). These films stood apart from mainstream Bollywood by tackling the harsh social realities of a struggling nation.
Benegal passed away on Monday at Mumbai’s Wockhardt Hospital, with his cremation scheduled for Tuesday, according to a report, citing his daughter, Piya. She shared that he had been battling chronic kidney disease for several years, which had worsened in recent times.
Tributes poured in for the filmmaker on social media. Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt praised Benegal for his unpretentious storytelling, noting that his films were raw and real, focusing on the struggles of ordinary people, with both craft and conviction.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Shyam Benegal, stating that his storytelling had a significant impact on Indian cinema. Modi added that Benegal’s works would continue to be cherished by people from all walks of life.
Benegal served as a mentor to some of India’s most renowned actors, including Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri, who went on to leave their mark on both popular and parallel cinema in Bollywood.
Actor Naseeruddin Shah shared his grief on social media, describing Benegal as a foster father to whom he owed more than words could express. Actor Manoj Bajpayee also paid tribute, calling Benegal not only a legend but a visionary who redefined storytelling and inspired multiple generations.
Benegal’s films often tackled significant social themes. Ankur examined the feudal divide in India, while Manthan was inspired by the country’s cooperative dairy milk movement. He was also known for directing the landmark 53-episode television series Bharat Ek Khoj, based on India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru’s book Discovery of India. The series chronicled India’s journey from ancient times to the present, highlighting its complex history.
Shyam Benegal also directed a 2023 biopic about Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the leader of Bangladesh’s independence movement against Pakistan in the 1970s. Rahman’s daughter, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, fled to India in August following a student movement.
Born in 1934 in Hyderabad, India, Benegal earned a degree in economics from Osmania University and was instrumental in founding the Hyderabad Film Society. He also worked in advertising, directing over 900 sponsored documentaries and ad films.
Benegal is survived by his wife, Nira Benegal.