Shabana Azmi
# Shabana Azmi Bio for BollyHits.com Shabana Azmi is basically the gold standard when it comes to serious, meaningful cinema in Hindi films. Born in 1950 to legendary poet Kaifi Azmi and stage actress Shaukat Azmi, she practically grew up around artistry and activism. Her debut in 1974 with Ankur kicked off an incredible 160-plus film career that's mostly defined by her work in parallel cinema—those raw, realistic indie films that actually said something about Indian society. The accolades speak for themselves: five National Film Awards for Best Actress (a record, mind you), five Filmfare Awards, plus the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan from the Indian government. She became THE face of the parallel cinema movement when it was still finding its footing, and she's stayed incredibly selective about her roles ever since. What really sets Shabana apart is her fearless approach to characters—she doesn't do stereotypes, and she's never been afraid to take on unconventional, sometimes controversial roles that challenge audiences. Her work has consistently pushed boundaries around women's representation and social issues on screen, which is probably why she's also a dedicated women's rights and social activist (she's even a UN Goodwill Ambassador). While she's maintained a fairly selective filmography in recent years compared to her prolific peak, her legacy as a trailblazer remains untouchable. Married to screenwriter and poet Javed Akhtar, she represents a rare breed of actor who's always prioritized substance over stardom—and somehow managed to be both respected and successful.
Filmography
Batwara 1947
2026
Ghoomer
2023
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
2023
Kaali Khuhi
2020
Chalk n Duster
2016
Neerja
2016
Jazbaa
2015
Sorry Bhai!
2008
Dus Kahaniyaan
2007
Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd.
2007
Umrao Jaan
2006
Tehzeeb
2003
Makdee
2002
Gaja Gamini
2000
Hari-Bhari
2000
Godmother
1999
Saaz
1998
Bada Din
1998
Mrityudand
1997
Fire
1996
Adharm
1992
Antarnaad
1991
Muqaddar Ka Badshaah
1990
Ek Doctor Ki Maut
1990
Amba
1990
Ek Din Achanak
1989
Oonch Neech Beech
1989
Main Azaad Hoon
1989
Mardon Wali Baat
1988
Libaas
1988
Brij
1988
Pestonjee
1988
Ek Aadmi
1988
Itihaas
1987
Mr. X
1987
Susman
1987
Shart
1986
Nasihat
1986
Genesis
1986
Congregation
1986
Rahi Badal Gaye
1985
Khamosh
1985
Narayana Rao Dasari
1984
Lorie
1984
Khandhar
1984
Kamla
1984
Kaamyab
1984
Gangvaa
1984
Bhavna
1984
Aaj Ka M.L.A. Ram Avtar
1984
Paar
1984
Log Kya Kahenge
1983
Avtaar
1983
Masoom
1983
Mandi
1983
Doosri Dulhan
1983
Sweekar Kiya Maine
1983
Pyaasi Aankhen
1983
Anokha Bandhan
1982
Jagmohan Mundhra, Ambrish Sangal
1982
Arth
1982
Ashanti
1982
Namkeen
1982
Raaste Pyar Ke
1982
Suraag
1982
Yeh Nazdeekiyan
1982
Sameera
1981
Basu Chatterji
1980
Narayana Rao Dasari
1980
Ek Baar Kaho
1980
Hum Paanch
1980
Apne Paraye
1980
Thodisi Bewafaii
1980
Sparsh
1980
Jwalamukhi
1980
Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai
1980
Yeh Kaisa Insaf?
1980
Lahu Ke Do Rang
1979
Jeena Yahan
1979
Bagula Bhagat
1979
Amar Deep
1979
R. Krishnamurthy, K. Vijayan
1979
Toote Khilone
1978
Khoon Ki Pukaar
1978
Devata
1978
Atithee
1978
Swarg Narak
1978
Adha Din Aadhi Raat
1977
Shatranj Ke Khilari
1977
Kissa Kursi Ka
1977
Jallian Wala Bagh
1977
Parvarish
1977
Amar Akbar Anthony
1977
Hira Aur Patthar
1977
Ek Hi Raasta
1977
Swami
1977
Khel Khilari Ka
1977
Arjun Pandit
1976
Shaque
1976
Kadambari
1976
Fakira
1976
Nishant
1975
Kantilal Rathod
1974
Ankur
1974
Faslah
1974
Ishk Ishk Ishk
1974
Parinay
1974