Veteran actress Shabana Azmi provided deep insight into her illustrious five-decade-long career in cinema during a masterclass at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024. The session, which was a highlight of the festival, saw Azmi in conversation with renowned actress Vidya Balan. It was a momentous occasion for attendees, as they were invited into the world of Azmi’s experiences, highlighting her personal journey and the profound impact she has had on Indian and world cinema.
The masterclass was an engaging session, where Azmi offered glimpses into her collaborations with some of the most celebrated filmmakers in the industry. She reflected on her work with noted directors such as Shyam Benegal, Mahesh Bhatt, Satyajit Ray, and Deepa Mehta. Her anecdotes provided a rich tapestry of her experiences, enriched by her distinct ability to adapt and evolve within the cinematic world.
Recalling her time with Mahesh Bhatt, Azmi recounted a unique experience from one of their films. “For one of the movies, we didn’t even have a script. I would just wear my own clothes and turn up on the sets. But it was like he pressed a button, and I would start,” Azmi elaborated, showcasing the effortless chemistry between an actor and a director that can transcend conventional filmmaking processes. Her reflections were raw and honest, adding vibrancy to the masterclass, deeply resonating with the audience.
Another memorable highlight was Azmi reminiscing about shooting the song “Tum Itna Kyun Muskura Rahe Ho” for the film Arth. “On the third day of filming, I just froze. Just before the clap, Mahesh said, ‘Look exposed.’ That was the best instruction anyone could have given me,” she recalled, explaining how that simple direction unlocked her performance for the scene.
. Such moments encapsulate the subtle yet powerful interplay of direction and performance that can create iconic cinematic memories.
During the session, Azmi also addressed the challenges she has faced in theatre acting, describing it as a demanding arena that requires performers to be perpetually on edge. “The butterflies in my stomach become as large as elephants,” she described, detailing the anxiety associated with live performances. “But once the first dialogue is set, a certain ease follows,” she added, highlighting the cathartic yet challenging nature of live theatre. Azmi underscored the importance of working in both theatre and film, drawing parallels with actors like Ralph Fiennes who effortlessly straddle both worlds.
Vidya Balan, on the other hand, shared her perspective as an untrained actor. She explained how she relies significantly on directors for guidance and expressed her ambition to delve into the world of comedy. Balan cited Sridevi’s performance in Mr. India as an exemplary case of physical comedy by a female actor, indicating her aspirations in exploring similar roles.
Celebrating Azmi’s monumental contributions to Indian cinema, MAMI honored her at the festival’s opening by presenting her with the Excellence in Cinema Award. Her significant impact on the industry and her inspiring journey were formally recognized amidst adulation and reverence. As part of the celebrations, a special screening of Arth, one of Azmi’s most acclaimed films, was scheduled for the day, symbolically tying together past achievements with current festivities.
The MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024, by providing a platform for such enlightening sessions, once again demonstrated its commitment to celebrating the richness and diversity of cinema. Through this masterclass, Shabana Azmi not only brought to life memories from her illustrious career but also inspired emerging artists and filmmakers with her insights, reinforcing her status as a legendary figure in the cinematic world. As the festival unfolded, the session stood out as a testament to Azmi’s lasting legacy and her undying passion for the craft of storytelling.
