Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal on Monday. The Chief Minister highlighted Benegal’s strong ties to Hyderabad and the cultural significance of his contributions to Indian cinema.
Shyam Benegal, born in Secunderabad in 1934, had a profound connection to Hyderabad, where he spent his formative years. The city played a pivotal role in shaping his illustrious career in filmmaking. Over the decades, Benegal earned numerous accolades, including seven National Film Awards and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, cementing his legacy in Indian cinema.
In his condolence message, CM Reddy spoke of Benegal’s transformative impact on the film industry. “Shyam Benegal’s work revolutionized Indian cinema. His iconic films like Ankur, Nishant, Manthan, and Bhumika brought fresh perspectives and changed the landscape of the industry. His attachment to Hyderabad and Telangana’s culture was evident in many of his works. I pray for peace for his soul and extend my deepest condolences to his family,” said Reddy.
Benegal’s storytelling extended beyond entertainment, often delving into themes of societal change and human emotions. His connection to Telangana was particularly special, with many of his films set in the region. He frequently spoke of Hyderabad’s distinct character and cultural richness, which he believed was unmatched by any other city.
The filmmaker’s roots in Hyderabad ran deep. He completed his MA in Economics from Nizam College and frequently returned to the city for his cinematic projects. Notably, Ankur and Mandi, two of his acclaimed films, were shot in the Sainikpuri area. Benegal also cherished memories of filming in and around Moula-Ali, a location close to his heart.
Beyond his films, Benegal left a lasting impression on young filmmakers. During a 2013 interaction with students at Annapurna International School of Film and Media, he shared invaluable insights into the art of filmmaking. He encouraged aspiring directors to stay observant of their surroundings and emphasized the importance of continuous learning in cinema, describing it as an ever-evolving field.
Benegal also celebrated the creative power of filmmaking, often likening the process to “playing god.” He believed that filmmakers had the unique ability to create immersive worlds for viewers, a concept he passionately conveyed in his discussions about the craft.
Shyam Benegal’s legacy continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike, leaving behind a rich cultural heritage deeply intertwined with Telangana and Indian cinema.
