Veteran actress Shabana Azmi was honored with the prestigious ‘Excellence in Cinema Award’ at the 2024 MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, commemorating her extraordinary 50-year journey in the film industry. The award, which acknowledges her immense contributions to Indian cinema, was presented by none other than legendary actress Waheeda Rehman, making the occasion even more special.
Taking to Instagram to express her heartfelt gratitude, Shabana wrote, “Thank you to @MAMI Mumbai Film Festival for presenting me with the Excellence in Cinema Award made all the more special because the wonderful #WaheedaRehman handed it to me. Thank you also to @zoieakhtar @tigerbabyofficial team and #NamrataGoyal for all the hard work they put in. Missed you #ShyamBenegal.”
The MAMI Film Festival, organized annually by the Mumbai Academy of Moving Image, has become a prominent platform celebrating the best of Indian and international cinema. This year’s event paid tribute to Shabana Azmi’s five-decade-long career, during which she has portrayed some of the most memorable women characters in Indian cinema. From her award-winning debut in Ankur (1974) to her recent works, Shabana’s filmography spans both parallel and mainstream cinema, breaking stereotypes and leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
As part of the festival, National Award-winning actor Vidya Balan will host a masterclass on October 19, where Shabana Azmi’s journey, experiences, and contributions will be explored in-depth. This session will provide valuable insights into her craft and her influential roles that have shaped the landscape of Indian cinema.
Shabana Azmi’s legacy is not only defined by her stellar performances but also by her dedication to socially relevant causes, both on and off the screen. Her work continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers, and this recognition at the MAMI Film Festival is a testament to her unmatched influence in the industry.
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