50 years of Shabana Azmi: Her Filmfare Award winning performances

Shabana Azmi completes 50 phenomenal years in the film industry today, a moment coinciding with the 50th anniversary of her debut film, Ankur (1974). As we honour this milestone, we revisit her unforgettable journey, highlighting her Filmfare award-winning performances.

Shabana Azmi made an impressive debut with Ankur (1974)

Shabana made a lasting first impression in her debut with Shyam Benegal’s Ankur (1974). This iconic movie revolutionised Indian cinema adding more power to the new wave of parallel cinema. Set in rural landscape of South India, Ankur tells the poignant story of Lakshmi (Shabana Azmi), a young Dalit woman, and her complex relationship with Surya (Anant Nag), a privileged Brahmin youth. The film masterfully explores themes of class struggle, social inequality and the quiet strength of women. It got Shabana a nomination for Best Actress, though she didn’t win the Filmfare for her debut.

It was the start of a distinguished career for Shabana who impressed audiences with her performances in both commercial films and middle-of-the-road cinema. Where there were amazing and entertaining films like Amar Akbar Anthony, Devata and Amar Deep, there were also acclaimed artistic performances like in Nishant, Junoon and Fire.

Shabana Azmi’s five-decade-long career boasts an impressive array of critical and commercial success. Her dedication to her craft has earned her numerous awards, including five Filmfare Awards. Here’s a look at her Filmfare award-winning performances.

Swami (1977)

In Basu Chatterjee’s Swami, Shabana Azmi played Saudamini, a young bride struggling to adjust to her new life in a joint family. Her nuanced portrayal captured the complexities of marital life, showcasing her exceptional talent. Azmi’s performance was praised for its subtlety, conveying emotions through silence and facial expressions. Deservedly, she won her first Filmfare Award for Best Actress thanks to this performance.

Arth (1982)

In Mahesh Bhatt’s Arth, Shabana Azmi delivered a powerful performance as Pooja, a woman navigating a complex marriage. Her character’s transformation from vulnerability to empowerment was deeply impactful. Azmi’s portrayal was lauded for its intensity, sensitivity and depth. Her on-screen chemistry with Smita Patil was fantastic. This film fetched Shabana her second Filmfare Award for Best Actress.

Bhavna (1984)

In BR Ishara’s Bhavna, Shabana Azmi played a woman torn between her husband and lover. Her nuanced depiction explored themes of love, guilt, and redemption. Azmi’s performance was praised for its complexity, conveying the character’s inner turmoil. Shabana won the Best Actress award for Bhavna while she was also nominated in the same category for another fine performance in a film called Sparsh.

Neerja (2016)

In Ram Madhvani’s Neerja, Shabana Azmi played Rama Bhanot, Neerja’s mother. Her poignant performance added depth to the film, highlighting the emotional struggles of a family dealing with tragedy. Azmi’s portrayal was lauded for its restraint and emotional impact. Understandably, it won Shabana her first award in Filmfare’s Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) category.

Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023)

In Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Shabana Azmi played Mitul, a feisty matriarch. Her portrayal showcased her ability to balance humour and drama, bringing warmth to the film. Azmi’s performance was praised for its energy and charisma. The Filmfare jury found her performance captivating enough to give her a Filmfare Award in the Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) category.

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