Synopsis
Shabana Azmi, the iconic actress, reflects on her impactful film career, highlighting 'Arth' as the pivotal work that sparked her involvement in the women's movement. With over 160 films to her credit, she continues to inspire through her portrayal of strong female characters.Key Takeaways
- Shabana Azmi credits 'Arth' with igniting her passion for the women's movement.
- The film is recognized as a significant work in Bollywood cinema.
- 'Arth' explores themes of identity and personal struggle.
- Shabana reflects on her extensive career in the film industry.
- She expresses her desire to continue exploring life’s experiences.
New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) National award-winning actress Shabana Azmi encapsulated her cinematic journey with a singular title: "Arth." The esteemed actress considers this film to be the catalyst for her profound engagement with the women's movement.
Reflecting on her career, when asked to encapsulate her cinematic journey in one sentence, Shabana shared with IANS: “I would say ‘Arth,’ as it was the film that initiated my connection to the women's movement.”
“Arth,” a 1982 Indian drama directed by Mahesh Bhatt, starred Shabana alongside Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Smita Patil, Raj Kiran, and Rohini Hattangadi. This film has been recognized as one of the 25 essential Bollywood films and was later remade in Tamil under the title Marupadiyum.
The narrative of “Arth” revolves around a filmmaker embroiled in an extramarital affair with an actress, leading him to leave his wife. It portrays the woman's quest for her own identity.
Shabana also recounted that upon the film's release, numerous women approached her seeking assistance, marking the beginning of her advocacy for the women's movement.
At the launch of Antara AGEasy, a comprehensive platform for seniors, she acknowledged that it would be unrealistic to believe she has experienced everything life has to offer.
When asked if there remained any uncharted territories she wishes to explore, Shabana responded to IANS: “Oh, life in its entirety. It would be naive to think I have experienced it all. Though I may not engage in adventurous activities anymore, I still yearn for new experiences. I don't desire much.”
The septuagenarian made her cinematic debut in 1974 with “Ankur.” With five decades in the entertainment industry, Shabana boasts a filmography exceeding 160 films, primarily within independent and neorealist cinema.
She is widely acclaimed for her portrayals of unique, often unconventional female characters across diverse genres.
