Hyderabad, Sept. 19 -- When Shyam Benegal's film Ankur was released in 1974, it opened the eyes of the audience and introduced a very unusual theme on the silver screen. Ankur differed from other Indian films by eschewing a story involving singing and dancing. It portrayed the complex connections of caste, class, and gender in a feudal Indian setting.

Actress Shabana Azmi made her debut in the film and gave an impressive performance as Laxmi, the main female protagonist of the tale. The year 2024 saw the accomplished star complete half a century in films, and she celebrates her 75th birthday on September 18, 2025.

Renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray said about her performance in Ankur: "Shabana Azmi's poise and personality are never in doub...