Wed. Feb 19th, 2025
Karisma-Kapoor

Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a titan of Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 90 on December 23, 2024, at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai, due to complications from chronic kidney disease. As tributes pour in for the acclaimed director, Actress Karisma Kapoor, who worked with him on the iconic film Zubeidaa (2001), shared heartfelt memories of their time together.

A Personal Connection

Calling Benegal her “second grandfather,” Karisma Kapoor reminisced about his meticulous approach to filmmaking and his warm, engaging personality. “Shyamji’s legacy is eternal. His dedication to authentic storytelling and his courage to explore themes of identity and human struggles will continue to inspire generations,” she said in a statement.

Karisma shared that she tasted ‘khow suey’ for the first time at his home, reflecting on their shared moments of bonding over movies, music, and food. She described working with him as one of the most enriching experiences of her life.

The Zubeidaa Legacy

Directed by Shyam Benegal and written by Khalid Mohammed, Zubeidaa starred a stellar cast, including Karisma Kapoor, Rekha, and Manoj Bajpayee, among others. The film won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and brought Karisma the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress.

Benegal’s insistence on authenticity stood out during the making of Zubeidaa. From using sync sound to sourcing real jewellery and costumes lent by royal families, he set a standard of realism and depth that left a lasting impact on Indian cinema.

Kareena Kapoor’s Tribute

Karisma’s sister, Kareena Kapoor, also paid tribute by sharing a poster of Zubeidaa on her Instagram story with a heart emoji, reflecting the familial bond and respect the Kapoor family shares for Benegal’s work.

Shyam Benegal’s Indelible Impact

Known for addressing socio-political themes with depth, Benegal’s films like Ankur, Manthan, and Mandi shaped the landscape of Indian cinema. His recent work, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), an India-Bangladesh co-production, portrayed the life of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, and further cemented his status as a cinematic maestro.

Benegal’s contributions extended beyond films to iconic television series like Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan, which remain benchmarks in Indian storytelling. As the Director of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), he championed the cause of Indian art cinema and nurtured many emerging talents.

A Legacy Remembered

As the film fraternity mourns the loss of Shyam Benegal, Karisma Kapoor’s heartfelt words reflect the deep personal and professional influence he had on those who worked with him. Indian cinema, forever indebted to his genius, bids farewell to a true pioneer who blended authenticity with artistry.

This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.

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