Shabana Azmi, one of Bollywood’s most talented and respected actresses, has achieved a remarkable feat in Indian cinema. Known for her extraordinary acting skills and versatility, Shabana Azmi has won the prestigious National Film Award five times, the most by any actress in the history of Indian cinema. Her journey in the film industry is a testament to her dedication, talent, and the powerful roles she has portrayed on screen.
The Beginning: ‘Ankur’ (1974)
Shabana Azmi’s journey to stardom began with her debut film Ankur in 1974, directed by Shyam Benegal. In this film, she played the role of Lakshmi, a Dalit woman who works with her husband at the house of a wealthy landlord’s son. Her performance was so powerful and nuanced that she won her first National Film Award in 1975, a significant achievement for a debut actress. Ankur not only marked the beginning of Shabana Azmi’s illustrious career but also established her as a formidable talent in Indian cinema.
A Career-Defining Role: ‘Arth’ (1982)
After her successful debut, Shabana Azmi continued to take on challenging roles that showcased her acting prowess. One of her most iconic performances came in the 1982 film Arth, directed by Mahesh Bhatt. The film, which is said to be based on Bhatt’s own life, revolves around a filmmaker’s extramarital affair with an actress. Shabana Azmi played the role of Pooja Inder Malhotra, a woman who must navigate the complexities of her husband’s infidelity. Her portrayal of Pooja earned her the second National Film Award of her career in 1983, further cementing her status as one of Bollywood’s most talented actresses.
The Haunting Beauty of ‘Khandhar’ (1984)
Shabana Azmi’s third National Film Award came for her performance in the 1984 film Khandhar, directed by Mrinal Sen. In this film, she starred alongside Naseeruddin Shah and Pankaj Kapoor in a poignant love story set against the backdrop of a decaying village. Khandhar tells the story of a photographer who visits a remote village and becomes entangled in the life of a lonely woman, played by Shabana Azmi. Her portrayal of this tragic character was both haunting and mesmerizing, earning her widespread acclaim and her third National Award.
The Powerhouse Performance in ‘Paar’ (1985)
In 1985, Shabana Azmi delivered another unforgettable performance in the film Paar, directed by Goutam Ghose. This film, which dealt with themes of poverty and exploitation in rural Bihar, saw Shabana Azmi playing the role of Rama, the wife of a laborer named Naurangiya, portrayed by Naseeruddin Shah. The film’s powerful narrative, combined with the stellar performances of its lead actors, made it a critical success. Shabana Azmi’s portrayal of Rama, a woman struggling to survive in harsh conditions, was so compelling that it earned her the fourth National Film Award of her career.
The Unstoppable Force in ‘Godmother’ (1999)
Shabana Azmi’s fifth National Film Award came for her role in the 1999 film Godmother, directed by Vinay Shukla. The film was a biographical drama based on the life of Santokben Jadeja, a notorious gangster from Porbandar, Gujarat. In Godmother, Shabana Azmi played the role of Rambhi, a woman who rises to power in a male-dominated world of crime and politics. Her portrayal of this complex and powerful character was met with widespread acclaim, earning her the fifth National Film Award of her illustrious career. Godmother not only showcased Shabana Azmi’s incredible acting range but also highlighted her ability to take on challenging roles and deliver performances that resonate with audiences.
A Legacy of Excellence
Shabana Azmi’s incredible talent is no surprise, given her artistic lineage. Her mother, Shaukat Azmi, was also an actress, and her father, Kaifi Azmi, was a renowned poet. Acting, it seems, runs in her blood. Over the years, Shabana Azmi has played a wide variety of roles, each one distinct and memorable. Whether she is playing a Dalit woman in Ankur, a betrayed wife in Arth, or a powerful crime lord in Godmother, Shabana Azmi brings depth, authenticity, and emotion to every role.
Even in recent years, Shabana Azmi continues to impress audiences with her performances. Last year, she appeared in the film Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, starring alongside Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt. Her on-screen chemistry with Dharmendra in this film, particularly their much-talked-about kissing scene, garnered significant attention and praise.
Shabana Azmi’s career is a shining example of what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and a passion for the craft of acting. With five National Film Awards to her name, she remains one of Bollywood’s most respected and admired actresses, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
