Shyam Benegal dies at 90

Shyam Benegal, the legendary filmmaker who redefined the landscape of Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 90. According to his daughter Pia Benegal, he had been battling chronic kidney disease for several years. His death has left the film industry in mourning, with fans and colleagues alike expressing their sorrow on social media.

Benegal’s passing has sent shockwaves through the cinematic world, with tributes pouring in from a wide range of personalities. Celebrities such as Shekhar Kapur, Kajol, Chiranjeevi, and Manoj Bajpayee took to their social media platforms to share heartfelt memories of the iconic director.

Manoj Bajpayee, who worked with Benegal on the film Zubeidaa, shared a poignant post on X (formerly Twitter), describing the loss as "heartbreaking." He reflected on his transformative experience working with the filmmaker, writing, “Shyam Benegal wasn’t just a legend, he was a visionary who redefined storytelling and inspired generations. Working with him in Zubeidaa was a transformative experience for me, exposing me to his unique style of storytelling & nuanced understanding of performances.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, recognizing Benegal's monumental contribution to Indian cinema. In a statement, he said, “His works will continue to be admired by people from different walks of life. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Benegal’s legacy as a pioneering filmmaker, known for his thought-provoking and socially relevant narratives, will remain etched in the annals of Indian cinema.