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Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal died at the age of 90 on December 23, 2024. He was suffering from prolonged kidney-related issues. He took his last breath at 6:30 pm on Tuesday. The news of his demise was confirmed by his daughter, Pia Benegal, to India Today Digital. He was admitted to the intensive care unit at Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai. His daughter stated that he suffered from kidney-related issues for the past several years. Benegal is survived by his wife Nira Benegal and his daughter, Pia Benegal.

While sharing the news with India Today, Pia said "He passed away at 6.38 pm at Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central. He had been suffering from chronic kidney disease for several years but it had gotten very bad. That's the reason for his death."

Shyam Benegal turned 90 on December 14, 2024. On the occasion of his birthday, the filmmaker talked about his upcoming project to PTI. He said, "We all grow old. I don't do anything great (on my birthday). It may be a special day but I don't celebrate it specifically. I cut a cake at the office with my team. I'm working on two to three projects; they are all different from one another. It's difficult to say which one I will make. They are all for the big screen." 

Several prominent public figures shared their condolences on social media. Shekhar Kapur wrote on X, "He created ‘the new wave’ cinema. #shyambenegal will always be remembered as the man that changed the direction of Indian Cinema with films like Ankur, Manthan and countless others. He created stars out great actors like Shabama Azmi and Smita Patil. Farewell my friend and guide."

 

 

 

 

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote, "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’ based on Pandit Nehru’s ‘The Discovery of India’ and the series ‘Samvidhaan’, which is based on the Constituent Assembly debates are a valuable reference point for young audiences." 

"Recipient of the prestigious Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Award, along with 18 National Film Awards, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers," he added

Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra also expressed his grief. He tweeted, "If there is one thing Shyam Benegal expressed best : it was the Poetry of the ordinary face and ordinary lives !" 

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "Saddened by the passing of Shyam Benegal ji, a visionary filmmaker who brought 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." 

South superstar Chiranjeevi Konidela wrote on X, "Deeply saddened at the departure of Shri Shyam Benegal,one of the finest film makers and great intellectuals of our country. He discovered & nurtured some of the brightest film talents of India. His films, biographies and documentaries form part of India’s greatest cultural treasure!! A fellow Hyderabadi & former Rajya Sabha member, Benegal Sab’s masterful works will always be held in great esteem in Indian Cinema! Rest In Peace Sir!!" 

Akshay Kumar tweeted, "Pained to know of Shyam Benegal ji’s demise. One of the finest filmmakers in our country, truly a legend. Om Shanti." 

Bollywood renowned actor Manoj Bajpayee wrote on X, "A heartbreaking loss for Indian cinema. Shyam Benegal wasn’t just a legend, he was a visionary who redefined storytelling and inspired generations. Working with him in Zubeidaa was a transformative experience for me, exposing me to his unique style of storytelling & nuanced understanding of performances. I’ll forever be grateful for the lessons I learned under his direction. It was an absolute honor to have had the opportunity to work with him. His legacy will live on in the stories he told and the lives he touched. Rest in peace Shyam Babu, Om Shanti."

Shyam Benegal is known for his work in Manthan, Ankur, Zubeidaa, Mujib: The Making of a Nation, Mandi, Nishant and Bhumika to name a few. 

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