Shabana Azmi, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated and versatile actresses, marks an extraordinary milestone this year—50 years in the film industry. Known for her groundbreaking performances and commitment to socially relevant cinema, Azmi holds the record for the most National Film Awards won by any actress in the history of Indian cinema, with an impressive five wins. Azmi graduated from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in 1973, and just a year later, made her cinematic debut in Shyam Benegal’s critically acclaimed social drama Ankur (1974).
Her powerful portrayal in the film not only won over audiences but also earned her the National Award for Best Actress—an incredible feat for her debut performance. This set the stage for a career defined by depth, range, and consistent excellence. In the years that followed, Shabana Azmi became a symbol of strength in Indian parallel cinema, contributing to films that explored complex themes and social issues.
She went on to win four more National Film Awards for Best Actress for her performances in Arth (1982), Khandhar (1984), Paar (1984), and Godmother (1999). Her ability to embody a wide array of characters with emotional authenticity solidified her as one of the finest actors in Indian cinema. As the only actor, male or female, to receive five National Film Awards, Azmi’s filmography remains unparalleled.
Over the course of five decades, she has worked with some of the most prominent directors in Indi.
