The 13th edition of the Rajnigandha presents Jagran Film Festival (JFF), recognized as the world’s largest travel film festival, will take place in Delhi from September 4th to 7th, 2025. This year, the festival will honor Shabana Azmi with a special tribute marking her 50 years in the film industry. Celebrated for her exceptional acting and passionate involvement in social causes, Shabana Azmi has left a lasting imprint on cinema and society alike.
Retrospective Showcase Highlights Azmi’s Versatility and Impact
As part of the tribute, the festival will feature a comprehensive retrospective of Shabana Azmi’s notable films, spanning from her debut in Ankur (1974) to her latest roles. This showcase aims to celebrate her diverse characters and the significant influence she has had on generations of actors, filmmakers, and viewers, underlining her contribution to both art and activism over five decades.
Shabana Azmi Reflects on Her Cinematic Journey
Reflecting on reaching this milestone in Bollywood, Shabana Azmi expressed heartfelt gratitude and a strong connection to her craft:
“Cinema has been my greatest teacher and lifelong companion. These 50 years have been a journey of learning, discovery, and the joy of telling stories that matter. I am deeply grateful to audiences who have embraced my work over the decades. Having this milestone celebrated at Jagran Film Festival is truly special. For me, the journey continues because as long as there are stories to tell, there will always be a role to play.”
—Shabana Azmi, Actor
Discussion on Inclusivity in Casting
Shabana Azmi also commented on the importance of inclusiveness in casting choices, touching upon the diversity of roles she has portrayed:
“By that reasoning, I shouldn’t have played Hyderabadi characters in Ankur and Mandi.”
—Shabana Azmi, Actor
Significance of the Tribute and Cultural Impact
This tribute at Jagran Film Festival not only recognizes Shabana Azmi’s enduring contribution to Indian cinema but also highlights the evolving narrative of women actors shaping meaningful stories. As audiences, actors, and filmmakers come together to celebrate her legacy, the event reinforces the festival’s commitment to honoring artistic excellence and social engagement through cinema.
