Condolences are pouring in for renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal, who passed away in Mumbai last evening at the age of 90, following a prolonged battle with chronic kidney disease. His last rites will be performed today at 2 PM at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park.

 

 

 

Maharashtra Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Shyam Benegal and stated in his condolence message that Benegal belonged to the rare league of exceptionally brilliant filmmakers who made an indelible mark on the world of cinema through his pioneering contributions to parallel cinema. He added that with his demise, India has lost a genius filmmaker who inspired generations of storytellers.

 

 

 

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over the demise of Shyam Benegal and hailed him as the doyen of parallel cinema, who brought an era of realistic films to the country. Mr. Fadnavis added that Shyam Benegal’s invaluable contribution to the Indian film industry and its grandeur will never be forgotten.

 

 

 

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said that Benegal’s films highlighted the struggles and problems of common people, presenting audiences with powerful commentary. He added that Benegal’s demise has left a void in the parallel film industry.

 

 

 

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar hailed Shyam Benegal as the director who gave a new dimension to the Indian film industry and termed his passing as the end of a golden era in the history of Indian cinema.

 

 

 

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar paid his respects to Shyam Benegal and underlined his unique style of filmmaking, which presented social realities on the silver screen and gave Indian cinema a distinct identity.