'Memories...live on': Divya Dutta remembers Shyam Benegal on birth anniversary
What's the story
Actor Divya Dutta paid a heartfelt tribute to late filmmaker Shyam Benegal on his birth anniversary on Sunday. She shared a nostalgic moment from his 90th birthday celebrations in 2024. The intimate gathering was attended by industry stalwarts like Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Rajit Kapur, Atul Tiwari, and filmmaker-actor Kunal Kapoor.
Emotional message
Dutta's heartfelt tribute to Benegal
In her Instagram post, Dutta wrote, "This day..last year...but memories live on...the fondest ones." "Happy bday #shyambenegal !! Thankyou for the movies..thankyou for the life lessons..the experience, the joy of being on your sets and in your amazing company...always n always love for you..." The photo shared by Dutta features Azmi smiling and waving while sitting next to Benegal. Dutta, Shah and others are seen standing behind them.
Cinematic journey
Benegal's legacy in Indian cinema
Benegal, who passed away on December 23, 2024, due to kidney-related ailments, was a pioneer of Indian cinema. He made his feature film debut with Ankur (1974), starring Anant Nag and Azmi, and was known for iconic films like Bhumika, Manthan and Nishant. He was also the Director of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) from 1980-1986. His last directorial venture was Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023).