Indian cinema mourns the loss of one of its most influential figures, Shyam Benegal, who passed away at the age of 90 due to kidney-related ailments in Mumbai on December 23, 2024. A luminary of the Parallel Cinema movement, Benegal's work left an indelible mark on Indian filmmaking with his poignant explorations of societal issues, including caste, feudalism, and women's emancipation.

Born in Hyderabad in 1934, Benegal shared a familial connection with legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt, as second cousins. His early career in advertising eventually led him to teach at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), where he nurtured aspiring filmmakers. Benegal's filmmaking debut, Ankur (1974), not only introduced the powerful themes he would explore throughout his career but also marked the debut of acclaimed actress Shabana Azmi.

Over the decades, Benegal's collaborations with cinematographer Govind Nihalani and music composer Vanraj Bhatia, alongside a coterie of legendary actors like Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri, resulted in a filmography brimming with masterpieces such as Nishant, Mandi, Manthan, and Zubeidaa. His partnership with actor Shashi Kapoor yielded iconic films like Junoon and Kalyug.

Benegal's creative endeavors extended beyond cinema, embracing television, theatre, and documentary filmmaking to chronicle India's post-Independence journey. His films, often supported by state funding, reflected a rare blend of artistic integrity and social relevance. He received numerous accolades, including National Film Awards, the Padma Shri, and the Padma Bhushan, underscoring his contributions to Indian cinema and society.

In his later years, Benegal ventured into biopics and satire, directing works like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero and Well Done Abba. His final directorial venture, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), showcased his enduring commitment to storytelling.

Benegal's legacy is not merely his remarkable body of work but also his role as a mentor and inspiration to generations of filmmakers. As his daughter Pia Benegal shared, he battled chronic kidney disease with courage and resilience. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving Indian cinema bereft of one of its most pioneering and visionary creators.