MELBOURNE, 12 August 2023: Shabana Azmi, acclaimed Indian actress, social activist, and one of the prominent figures in the Indian film industry, today morning, hoisted the Indian tricolour, symbolising the triumph of India’s unity, diversity, and resilience, at the Alexandra Gardens.
She was joined by HE.Manpreet Vohra, India’s High Commissioner in Australia, Hon. Dr. Sushil Kumar, India’s Consul General in Melbourne, Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange among others with a massive crowd of the Indian Diaspora.
Legendary actor SHABANA AZMI hoists the Indian National Flag at the Peppercorn Lawns, Melbourne.
What a beautiful moment indeed! pic.twitter.com/pemiBoNTQX
— Mind Blowing Films (@MBFWorld) August 12, 2023
Shabana comes from a family with a strong artistic and intellectual background; her father, Kaifi Azmi, was a renowned Urdu poet, and her mother, Shaukat Kaifi, was an actress and theater personality.
Shabana Azmi made her acting debut in 1974 with the film “Ankur,” directed by Shyam Benegal. Her powerful performance in the film garnered widespread recognition and critical acclaim, earning her the National Film Award for Best Actress. This marked the beginning of her illustrious career in both mainstream and parallel cinema.
Throughout her career, Shabana Azmi has been known for her remarkable acting skills, choosing roles that challenge societal norms and address important social issues. Some of her notable films include:
- “Arth” (1982): This film directed by Mahesh Bhatt is considered one of her best performances. She portrayed a woman who finds strength and independence after her marriage falls apart.
- “Masoom” (1983): Shabana Azmi played a pivotal role in this emotional family drama, which dealt with the sensitive topic of an extramarital affair and its impact on the family.
- “Paar” (1984): In this film, she played the role of a rural woman struggling against the oppressive social norms and poverty.
- “Fire” (1996): Shabana Azmi starred in this controversial film that explored a same-sex relationship between two women.
- “Godmother” (1999): Her portrayal of a woman who rises to power in the male-dominated world of crime earned her widespread acclaim.
Shabana has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to Indian cinema, including several National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards. Apart from her acting career, she is also known for her active involvement in social and political issues. She has been an advocate for women’s rights, communal harmony, and various other social causes.
Azmi has also been involved in theatre and has performed in various plays both in India and internationally. She is respected for her eloquence, intellect, and commitment to her craft. Shabana has a prominent role in Ghoomer premiered at the IFFM-2023.
The flag hoisting event was followed by IFFM Dance Competition at the Peppercorn Lawn, minutes walk away from the Flinders Street Station. Electrifying and culturally diverse then weaved magic amid the sun followed by a cold breeze. The judges Malaika Arora and Aparshakti Khurana in the company of Mitu Bhowmick Lange had to make tough decisions amid the beauty and diversity of dances, both traditional and modern. A bit of rain towards the end of the competition added to the fun of the afternoon.
