Happy Birthday Shabana Azmi: 50 Years in the film industry and So Many Iconic Roles!

MUMBAI: From her debut in Ankur to her recent appearance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Shabana Azmi’s career is a masterclass in versatility and excellence. Over the past five decades, she has cemented her place as one of Bollywood’s most talented and respected actors.

Azmi's journey spans more than 100 films, showcasing her ability to navigate a diverse range of roles across independent cinema and mainstream blockbusters. Here’s a closer look at ten significant roles that highlight her extraordinary talent and adaptability:

1. Ankur (1974)

Shabana Azmi made her debut in Shyam Benegal’s Ankur, a film that was pivotal in the Indian parallel cinema movement. In this film, Azmi plays Laxmi, a young woman entangled in societal expectations and personal struggles. Her performance was both powerful and nuanced, setting the stage for her future success.

2. Arth (1982)

In Mahesh Bhatt’s Arth, Azmi takes on the role of Kavita Sanyal, a woman dealing with her husband’s infidelity. The film delves into themes of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. Azmi’s portrayal of Kavita’s emotional turmoil demonstrated her capacity to handle complex characters with depth and empathy.

3. Sparsh (1980)

Directed by Sai Paranjpye, Sparsh features Azmi as Kavita, a dedicated teacher at a school for the visually impaired. Her performance, alongside Naseeruddin Shah, is both touching and insightful, addressing themes of love and resilience while sensitively portraying the challenges faced by those with disabilities.

4. Masoom (1983)

In Masoom, Azmi plays Indu, the compassionate wife of Naseeruddin Shah’s character. The film explores family dynamics and the impact of an illegitimate child on a family. Azmi’s portrayal of Indu captures the emotional complexity of acceptance and forgiveness, earning her widespread critical acclaim.

5. Mandi (1983)

Reuniting with Shyam Benegal, Azmi stars in Mandi as a brothel owner navigating societal judgments. The film examines female autonomy and the lives of women in a patriarchal society. Azmi’s powerful performance adds emotional depth to the narrative, reinforcing her reputation as a versatile actress.

6. Fire (1996)

In Deepa Mehta’s Fire, Azmi takes on a groundbreaking role, portraying a woman exploring her sexuality in a complex relationship with her sister-in-law, played by Nandita Das. The film challenged societal norms and sparked discussions about LGBTQ+ representation in India, highlighting Azmi’s courage and willingness to tackle taboo subjects.

7. Godmother (1999)

Godmother features Azmi as Rambhi, a woman who rises to power in the male-dominated underworld of rural India. Her portrayal of this formidable character underscores themes of strength and resilience, with the film’s gritty narrative showcasing Azmi’s compelling performance.

8. Paar (1984)

Directed by Goutam Ghose, Paar stars Azmi as Naurangia, who faces oppression alongside her husband in rural India. The film addresses the struggles of marginalized communities, and Azmi’s performance adds significant emotional weight to the story, reflecting her ability to convey deep empathy and understanding.

9. Makdee (2002)

In Vishal Bhardwaj’s Makdee, Azmi plays a witch in a children’s film. This role is a departure from her usual characters, showcasing her range and willingness to embrace unconventional roles while delivering an unforgettable performance.

10. Neerja (2016)

Azmi’s role in Neerja as the mother of Neerja Bhanot is both moving and powerful. The film recounts Neerja’s bravery during a hijacking incident on Pan Am Flight 73, and Azmi’s portrayal adds emotional depth, emphasizing the sacrifices made by families in crises.