‘Loss for cinema and humanity’: Rahul, Mamata, Kharge pay tribute to legendary filmmaker Shyam Benegal | India News

NEW DELHI: Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a pioneer of Indian parallel cinema, passed away at the age of 90 at Mumbai’s Wockhardt Hospital due to chronic kidney disease. Known for classics such as Ankur, Nishant, and Manthan, Benegal’s contributions to Indian cinema left an indelible mark.
As news of his death came in, tributes poured in from political leaders across the country, each reflecting on his monumental legacy and influence.
Offering condolences, President Droupadi Murmu called his death “the end of a glorious chapter of Indian cinema and television”.
“His extraordinary contribution was recognised in the form of numerous awards including Dadasaheb Phalke Award and Padma Bhushan. My condolences to the members of his family and his countless admirers” President Murmu said in a post on X.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences, describing Benegal as a “pillar of Indian cinema.”
In a post on X, she wrote, “Saddened by the demise of our iconic filmmaker Shyam Benegal. A pillar of Indian parallel cinema, he was loved and admired by all connoisseurs. My condolences to his family, friends, and followers.”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also paid homage to the visionary filmmaker, highlighting his ability to bring India’s stories to life with depth and sensitivity. “His legacy in cinema and commitment to social issues will inspire generations. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and admirers worldwide,” Rahul said in a post on X.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor took a personal approach in his tribute, sharing childhood memories of Benegal’s time as an advertising professional. “Mourning the passing of #ShyamBenegal, a giant of India’s New Wave cinema who leaves a considerable body of cinematic accomplishment behind. My sisters and I knew him since our childhood, when he was an advertising professional who photographed them as the first ‘Amul Babies.’ His impact will endure, but his passing is an immense loss, for cinema and for humanity.” Tharoor wrote on X.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge reflected on Benegal’s towering legacy and highlighted his contributions to art and social issues in a post to pay him tribute.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of legendary filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a towering figure in Indian cinema and a true pioneer of the parallel cinema movement. His tremendous contributions to the art form, marked by thought-provoking storytelling and a profound commitment to social issues, leave an indelible mark. His works like Bharat, Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan are valuable reference points for young audiences,” Kharge posted, noting Benegal’s accolades, including the Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi underscored the social and philosophical depth in Benegal’s films, calling him a “true companion” who communicated with society through art. “The sensitivity of Nishant, the message of Manthan, and the philosophy of Bharat Ek Khoj – each of his creations is an inspiration. Today, an era of public voice in cinema has ended,” she wrote.

Minister of state for information and broadcasting, L Murugan, hailed Benegal as a “visionary storyteller.” In a post on X, he remarked, “He revolutionized Indian cinema with his profound narratives and artistic brilliance. His contributions to the world of art and culture will be remembered forever.”
Shyam Benegal’s cinematic legacy, including films like Bhumika, Junoon, and his latest biographical work, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), stands as a testament to his groundbreaking artistry and enduring influence on Indian cinema. As India mourns the loss of one of its most iconic filmmakers, the tributes from political leaders capture the profound respect and admiration he commanded across generations.