Shyam Benegal, the iconic filmmaker who played a pivotal role in the Indian parallel cinema movement during the 1970s and 1980s, has passed away at the age of 90. Benegal, renowned for his realistic and socially conscious films, revolutionized Indian cinema by breaking away from the mainstream industry's norms. He was known for his works such as Bhumika, Junoon, Mandi, Suraj Ka Satvaan Ghoda, and Mammo, all of which are considered classics in Hindi cinema.

Despite battling chronic kidney disease, Benegal remained dedicated to filmmaking, even working on multiple projects shortly before his death. His last film, Mujib: The Making of a Nation (2023), was a biographical project. Benegal's impact extended beyond films, with his direction of popular television serials like Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhaan. He is survived by his wife, Nira Benegal, and daughter, Pia Benegal.