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 SHABANA AZMI
A Role She Was Born To
It's in real life, not the movies, where SHABANA AZMI plays her biggest part—as a crusader against injustice
By MEENAKSHI GANGULY 
| DILIP MEHTA/CONTACT PRESS IMAGES FOR TIME |
Her passion is incontrovertible. Her ego can easily tend toward excessive. Her talent keeps her famous, and her pulchritude made her that way.
But the measure of Shabana Azmi's humanity is none of those things. It is her willingness to say, simply, what others are frightened of saying. "The trouble," says Azmi, "is that I can never keep quiet." That volubility has indeed caused her problems, but it's also made the 51-year-old Indian actress an outspoken secular hero espousing tolerance in a state riven by religious conflict.
The daughter of one of the country's best-known Urdu-language poets, Azmi took up acting almost three decades ago. Bankable in Bollywood, she tired of formulaic fare and is one of the few marquee actresses willing to risk reputation to take adventurous roles in experimental films. Her portrayal of a lonely woman who falls in love with her sister-in-law in Deepa Mehta's 1998 film Fire sparked threats of a ban by censors and violent protests by fundamentalists enraged at the depiction of lesbianism in middle-class India.
But it's not her movie roles that have made her a hero for modern India. She has consistently—and loudly—railed against real-world injustice. Early in her career, she took up the cause of slum dwellers in Bombay—where she lives—who had been ruthlessly evicted by municipal authorities. Since 1993, appalled by the then bloody riots between Muslims and Hindus, Azmi, a Muslim, has become a forceful critic of communalism and a tireless crusader to end religious extremism.
Azmi does not just fight for her co-religionists. In fact, her greatest battle has been against fundamentalist Islamic leaders. Post-Sept. 11, Azmi was among the first in the country to publicly criticize militant Islam. When the imam of Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, said Indian Muslims should join the jihad in Afghanistan, Azmi urged him to go—alone. Her outburst encouraged other Muslim moderates to step forward and counsel tolerance.
Azmi's activism has angered both Hindu and Muslim radicals as well as a variety of vested interests. But she doesn't care. "I am a daughter, a wife, a mother, a woman, an actress, an Indian and a Muslim," she says. "Each of those identities is important to me." And she doesn't intend to let anyone forget it. ____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#1 01 May 2007 08:40
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sur
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
 | TIMES NEWS NETWORK 30 Apr, 2007 |
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Everyone made a hoo-ha over the Ash-Hrithik kiss in Dhoom 2. But when they see Rishi Kapoor and Dimple Kapadia getting cosy, they think 'eeeew!' Why?
IT'S one thing when Emraan Hashmi kisses Mallika Sherawat (or anyone for that matter). It's quite another when Boman Irani and Shabana Azmi kiss. Audiences don't seem to receive these scenes very well.
In Metro, Dharmendra and Nafisa Ali play lovers. The movie portrays how the two stars fall in love with each other when they were in college but didn't get together; but it's never too late to find love and they do so at a later age. And, according to sources, in a romantic scene together Dharmendra and Nafisa are shown 'kissing passionately'.
"It's unfair to call it 'kissing passionately' because I've tried to portray emotions so that they would be beautiful," says Anurag Basu, the director of Metro. "Dharmendra and Nafisa's pairing in the film is romantic. Their's is an intense love story and is a counterpoint to contemporary relationships," says Anurag. "It's natural that the comfort level is better when two people of the same age group meet," he says.
So when does the formula click? "When lust is kept off and things aren't happening just behind closed doors," says Anurag. The concept can be easily conveyed to the audience if there's a reason," says Anurag. "The audience has to understand and it's the director's duty to make them understand. If it's honestly portrayed and there's a reason for the scene, then the audience will understand," says the director.
Kavita Lankesh says, "When I made Preeti Prema Pranaya, people weren't comfortable with the concept. But today, things are globalised; both people and the market have been accepting this because it's happening in society. Filmmakers are ready to experiment and are narrating this in different ways," says Kavita.
"It's not a teenage love story, but it's about the feelings of two mature people and it has to be dealt delicately," she says. "It's funny, but S** is considered something youthful and so children today can't accept their parents falling in love. This is a universal problem," says Kavita.
Ravi Chopra portrayed this clearly in his movie Baghban. "I tried to show how children don't understand their parents' feelings and this is very common among the youth today," says Ravi. This director, who loved Bridges of Madison County which was about a romance between people who were middle aged, says it brought out the emotions of the couple very well.
"We're humans and love can happen at any age. It's just a stereotyped mindset that parents or grown-ups have no private life," says Ravi.
Actress Shabana Azmi says that if two people of same age are comfortable with each other then why should anybody object? "Trends are changing.When I did Honeymoon Travels, my relationship with Boman Irani in the movie was received with a lot of warmth. If shown in an interesting manner, then the audience does accept," says Shabana.
Says director Madhur Bhandarkar, "Our audience today can handle this concept. I think people in metros and big cities are open. In the last five years the scenario has changed and so has the face of cinema." Madhur says, "Senior stars are considered icons and that's why the audience probably doesn't accept them in certain roles."
"Why does an Indian grandpa have to avoid certain things," asks actor Rajat Kapoor. "After all, we are not asexual beings. S** should be accepted in society and movies as well.We're living in the 21st century, why should we be pushed 100 years back?" ____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#2 01 May 2007 08:56
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sur
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Shabana Azmi |  "I am a daughter, a wife, a mother, a woman, an actress, an Indian and a Muslim. Each of these identities is important to me." – Shabana How succinctly Shabana Azmi says it all. This is exactly what she is and what she stands for. Shabana Azmi is the resurgent face of feminism of modern India. It is a different matter that she is equally acclaimed for her brilliance on the celluloid. Her social activism and the courage to call a spade a spade, has made her a cut above the rest, of the usual lot of Bollywood stars. Shabana’s striking countenance that fits into a vast spectrum of roles; coupled with her unmatched prowess, to emote and empathise with versatile characters, has made her hold sway on a genre of cinema for three decades. She is the pioneer of parallel movement in the Indian cinema and is the undisputed monarch of her territory. It is highly unlikely that times shall find her an heir, to carry forward her prolific legacy. Shabana Azmi was born to poet-activist, the legendary Kaifi Azmi and Shaukat, an actress on September 18, 1950. Apparently she has inherited a lot of talent and intellect from her parents. Shabana graduated from the Film and Television Institute of India in 1972. She made her debut in Shayam Benegal’s Ankur (1972). The film paid her rich dividends. Ankur not only became a harbinger of the parallel cinema, but also fetched her the first National Award. Later she went on to win another four – a feat unparalleled in the annals of film industry. Eight years and fifteen films after her debut, she showcased her greatest award winning performance in Mahesh Bhatt’s Arth (1982). Arth brought her yet another National Award and her first Filmfare award. It also placed her firmly in the orbit of the galaxy of film stars. She played a castaway wife, who had the mettle to take on the world. An equally brilliant performance by her illustrious co-star, the late Smita Patil, goaded Shabana to churn out her best. The rest of the three National Awards came from Khandar (1984), Paar (1985) and Godmother (1999). In Doosri Dulhan (1982), she played a prostitute to the hilt - the typical pan chewing and curse-spewing courtesan, who tries to seduce a millionaire out in search of a womb to father his child.  In the eighties, she acted in a large number of films. In her other two most popular films, like Swami (77) and Apne Paraye (80), based upon Saratchandra Chatterjee novels, she plays “the strong, traditional woman” who gracefully overcomes the infirmities associated with womanhood. Her second Filmfare award came from Bhavana. Swami won her the third Filmfare award for Best Actress. Masoom (1983), Khamosh (1985), Krishna (1987), Ek Admi (1988), and Disha (1990) moulded her image as an intelligent, responsible and thinking actress.
In the Immaculate Conception (1992), an English trans-cultural drama of Jamil Dehlvi, she played Samira- a Pakistani lady opposite James Wilby. The Son of Pink Panther directed by Blake Edwards; Rolland Joeff’s City of Joy; Nicholas Klotz’s The Bengali Night co -starred with John Hurt and Hugh Grant and John Schlesinger’s Madame Sousatzka (1988), all won her immense International acclaim. It stands to her credit that she can flit from art roles to a popular jean wearing Bollywood glam girl with ease. Her appreciable performances in Amar Akbar Anthony (1976) and Fakira (1978) bear ample testimony to this fact. Shabana, the adventurist came to fore, in her foray into the controversial subject like lesbianism, in Deepa Mehta’s Fire (1996). In Mrityudand (1997), she picturised a barren woman who warms up to a socially inferior partner. To add further versatility to her profile, she played a witch in Vishal Bharadwaj’s horror flick- Makdi (2002). Lately, she figured in Khalid Mohamed’s Tehzeeb and easily overshadowed the skimpily clad co- artists. Shabana, the actress of all seasons was included in the august jury of International Film Festivals held at Cairo and Montreal. Shabana is married to an equally famous poet-lyricist and screenwriter husband Javed Akhtar. The Government of India honoured Shabana, a veteran of over hundred films with Padam Shri award in 1998. She was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, as a Member of Parliament by the President of India, an honour bestowed upon people who have attained excellence in their respective fields. She also has the distinction of holding the coveted post of United Nations Ambassador of Goodwill on Population and Development.  Shabana has assumed a great stature in social activism. She is an untiring crusader of human and women rights. She has unequivocally condemned and fought against religious fundamentalism, on hundreds of occasions from different platforms. She has never lagged behind in any endeavour to normalise matters, whenever communal amity and peace is held to ransom by anti-social elements. Shabana Azmi is always at the forefront in fight for a just cause whether it is for the cause of slum dwellers of Mumbai or for alleviation of those suffering from AIDS.
As an actress, may be Shabana is past her prime. But as a champion of progressive ideas, national integrity, peace and harmony she has many more miles to traverse. We wish her a long life so that she keeps on serving the society with the ardour, so inherently characteristic of her. |
____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#3 01 May 2007 09:00
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
 .____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#4 01 May 2007 09:09
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Shabana Azmi: Delhi born Shabana Azmi (September 18, 1950) had her first hit in 1974's "Ishq, Ishq, Ishq" with Dev Anand and Zeenat Aman, which was a great start to her acting career. She represents the parallel side of Bollywood because of her art house films, dealing with social issues like divorce, lesbianism and widowhood within India. She's a spokesperson for women's rights and is constantly making films with thought provoking messages.
Why She's Sexy: Shabana is sexy because she exudes class, charm and strength, which makes her captivating to watch.
Her Impact on Bollywood: She is considered the best Indian actress of her time. She also inspired noted lyricist and screen writer, Javed Aktar (who co-wrote "Sholay" and "Don") to write some of Bollywood's beautiful ballads.
Interesting Fact: In 2002, The Film Society of Lincoln Center did a film festival based on her works because she is a strong supporter of human rights.
____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#5 05 Sep 2007 23:50
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Music
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Shabana Azmi on a judging spree IANS Thursday, November 08, 2007 MUMBAI: Veteran actress Shabana Azmi is so busy judging events that she hasn't met her husband Javed Akhtar for a week despite being in the same city and he is upset with her. "And rightly so. We're in the same city and we haven't seen each other's face for nearly a week. It's okay if we were in different cities. But, come on, not meeting each other in the same city is a bit too much," Shabana said. But the situation is beyond the couple's control. "I'm shooting non-stop for my reality show 'Jhoom India' on Sahara while Javed is shooting for another reality show on another channel," said Shabana who went to Australia November 2 to be a member of the jury for the Asia-Pacific Film Festival. But before that, in Mumbai, she judged the Deutsche Bank's Urban Age award attended by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. "So it's three totally different events to do with television, cinema and society. I feel I should get one of those judge's capes and wig and hold a hammer in my hand and go, 'Order order'," she joked. Why did she decide to do television at this juncture of her career? "See, 'Jhoom India' is not like the other music contests on television. Hats off to all these celebrities from various walks of life who aren't singers but are making an attempt to sing. "It's one thing for me as an actor to try and sing in 'Anjuman' many years ago and recently in 'Loins Of Punjab'. I only know how petrified and nervous I was. But imagine these professionals who've no experience in singing daring to take the mike. "I admire any endeavour that pushes the individual beyond her limits," said the actress who learnt Carnatic music for her role in 'Morning Raga'. Last week Shabana shocked everyone by breaking into a jig on the show accompanied by 'Beedi jalay le' number from 'Omkara'. "I shocked myself more than anyone else," she laughed.
____________ Music forms a part of me again It gives Shape to my faceless Expressions...To my Thoughts. {Alochana}
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#6 10 Nov 2007 03:20
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sur
Joined: November 2006
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Interview - Asian cinema should be properly recognized: Shabana Azmi By Neena Bhandari  T he time has come for Asian cinema to be recognized and represented internationally, says actor and activist Shabana Azmi, who was heading the international jury for the inaugural Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) being held here. "The Asia Pacific Screen Awards is an idea whose time has come both politically and culturally. It is only fair that Asian cinema which comprises nearly three-fourths of world cinema is properly recognized and represented," Azmi told Indo-Asian News Service in an interview here. "The Oscar award seems to be the definitive award filmmakers aspire for. We are going to create in the times to come an alternative to that so that Asian cinema gets the recognition it deserves," she said. APSA has covered over 100 films from 30 countries across the Asia Pacific region. However, only one Indian film - ‘Gandhi My Father' was among the five nominated in the best screenplay category. "I think there could have been much greater representation from India. The film that is here, ‘Gandhi My Father', is an excellent film and I'm glad it is here. There were efforts to get 'Chak De! India'. It did not happen because producer Yash Raj had concerns about piracy as the film had not been released in cinemas at the time of selections, which APSA was very happy to respect," she said. The awards were presented on November 13 at the Sheraton Mirage here. According to Azmi, as the world shrinks and becomes a global village, it is important that cultures are understood within their own paradigms and not as yardsticks imposed by the West on the East. "What APSA is doing is a step in that direction and that is why it is very important. It is a great opportunity and window into the cultures of the world. What has been available has been Hollywood. Where do we see all these countries - Lebanon, (South) Korea, Palestine - making films?" On the future of the Australian-Indian film connection, Azmi said, "Co-productions should always be encouraged. Australia has such fabulous locales and is offering lots of incentives to Indian cinema. My son Farhan Akhtar shot his very first film 'Dil Chahta Hai' in Sydney and he was very happy. All the facilities here were great." Her favorite is a film from Israel, ‘The Band's Visit'. "It is an exquisite film that has deeply, deeply, deeply touched my heart. The film demonstrates how cinema has the ability to enter your hearts and touch across all cultures and classes and there is something universal about it." Two of her films are ready for release. "In 'Das Kahaniyan', there are 10 different stories strung together. It is produced by Sanjay Gupta and directed by Rohit Roy who managed to get Naseer and me together after 15 years in one episode. It will be released on Nov. 23." "I have done a film for my son with Boman Irani called 'Positive'. It is a film about HIV/AIDS produced by Mira Nair and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It will be released in December," she added. T he time has come for Asian cinema to be recognized and represented internationally, says actor and activist Shabana Azmi, who was heading the international jury for the inaugural Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) being held here. "The Asia Pacific Screen Awards is an idea whose time has come both politically and cultur- ally. It is only fair that Asian cinema which com- prises nearly three-fourths of world cinema is properly recognized and represented," Azmi told Indo-Asian News Service in an interview here. "The Oscar award seems to be the definitive award filmmakers aspire for. We are going to cre- ate in the times to come an alternative to that so that Asian cinema gets the recognition it deserves," she said. APSA has covered over 100 films from 30 countries across the Asia Pacific region. Howev- er, only one Indian film - ‘Gandhi My Father' - was among the five nominated in the best screen- play category. "I think there could have been much greater representation from India. The film that is here, ‘Gandhi My Father', is an excellent film and I'm glad it is here. There were efforts to get 'Chak De! India'. It did not happen because producer Yash Raj had concerns about piracy as the film had not been released in cinemas at the time of selec- tions, which APSA was very happy to respect," she said. The awards were presented on Novem- ber 13 at the Sheraton Mirage here. According to Azmi, as the world shrinks and becomes a global village, it is important that cul- tures are understood within their own paradigms and not as yardsticks imposed by the West on the East. "What APSA is doing is a step in that direc- tion and that is why it is very important. It is a great opportunity and window into the cultures of the world. What has been available has been Hollywood. Where do we see all these countries - Lebanon, (South) Korea, Palestine - making films?" On the future of the Australian-Indian film connection, Azmi said, "Co-productions should always be encouraged. Australia has such fabu- lous locales and is offering lots of incentives to Indian cinema. My son Farhan Akhtar shot his very first film 'Dil Chahta Hai' in Sydney and he was very happy. All the facilities here were great." Her favorite is a film from Israel, ‘The Band's Visit'. "It is an exquisite film that has deeply, deeply, deeply touched my heart. The film demonstrates how cinema has the ability to enter your hearts and touch across all cultures and classes and there is something universal about it." Two of her films are ready for release. "In 'Das Kahaniyan', there are 10 different stories strung together. It is produced by Sanjay Gupta and directed by Rohit Roy who managed to get Naseer and me together after 15 years in one episode. It will be released on Nov. 23." "I have done a film for my son with Boman Irani called 'Positive'. It is a film about HIV/AIDS produced by Mira Nair and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It will be released in December," she added. ____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#7 17 Nov 2007 13:09
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Intolerance is against the basic grain of Indian culture The controversy surrounding Water refused to abate. Reporters had been chasing her with questions all day long and she was exhausted. Yet Shabana Azmi decided to spend her evening answering questions on Rediff Chat. And her answers, just like her, were hardhitting and straight to the point.
 Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:37 IST)
Hi everyone....
nachiketa (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:35 IST)
Ms Azmi: HAve you shown the script to the UP government?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:39 IST)
Nachiketa: The procedure is that the film has to be first passed by the ministry of I&B at the centre. It is then suggested that the state government MAY BE consulted. However, the DM Varanasi has been given the script.
Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:38 IST)
Ms Azmi, as an artist, what affect do such incidences have on your creativity? Do you think the shoot will begin shortly?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:42 IST)
Kirti Sharma: I'm hopeful that we should be we should be able to start shooting by day after tomorrow. But the whole process of negoitiation is very draining. I have lost all the concentration that is required for an intense script like Water.
Kersasp (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:42 IST)
Do you think these so-called defenders of Hinduism have really the interests of Hindusim at heart?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:43 IST)
Kerasap: Hinduism is a very tolerant, all embracing religion. By indulging in vandalism, the so-called custodians of Hindu religion are actually defiling it. Because vandalism has no place in Hinduism.
smisra (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:40 IST)
Shabana-ji... when uneducated masses oppose the showing of critical movies or publishing of critical books, one frequent complaint they voice is that "you" are criticizing "our" culture, traditions, history, etc. In this complaint is inherent the feeling of "you" as outside the "us", as not sharing the same culture, and hence... not criticizing from within as perhaps a religious leader or guru would be allowed to do but criticizing from the outside. What do you think of this?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:47 IST)
Smisra: I'm not sure that the criticism of this script is based on any real feeling of injury, it seems more like an opportunity has been provided to force attention on people who have no other claim to fame. However, I do think that whenever you come out against social injustice, there are some people who become extra-sensitive. In a democracy everybody should have the right to express their views freely, even if it is pure fiction.
shabani azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:43 IST)
Shabana ji , what is the greatest problem our country is facing today - probably "lesbianism"
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:49 IST)
shabani: The biggest problem our country is facing today is poverty, illiteracy and very poor access to health. But it is very worrying that to these problems is being added the problem of intolerance which is against the basic grain of Indian culture.
Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:46 IST)
I read in Rediff that over 110 crew members of the film are just hanging around in Varanasi -- what are the circumstances there. What is the attitude of the locals towards you.
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:51 IST)
Kirti Verma: The local crowds are being hugely supportive, asking us to keep our chins up. Many women's organisations, cultural/student unions have come forward in our support and so we feel heartned that only a small section of people are creating deliberate mischief. But it is very painful to be housebound. I am just looking forward to starting the film. The crew, despite their disappointment, is solidly behind Deepa.
shabani azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:48 IST)
Shabana ji , if you were offered a film condemning the triple talaq phenomenon in Islam would you do it ?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:52 IST)
Shabani: Most certainly. I have on record spoken out against triple talaq being unIslamic and leading to the oppression of Muslim women.
Hallowen (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:50 IST)
Ms Azmi: What you all gain by making such kind of films after all? By highlighting such issues does it make a difference to common man's life who does not have two meals to eat?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST)
Hallowen: Any process of art, whether literature or painting or film, uses its medium to create a climate of sensitivity in which it is possible for change to occur. Social attitudes cannot be changed only by legislation and that's why art can be used as an instrument of social change.
Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:52 IST)
Ms Azmi, can you elucidate on Deepa Mehta's trip to Delhi after the shooting was halted? What has happened since, what did Arun Jaitley tell her? Was he polite etc?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:56 IST)
Kirti Verma: Unfortunately, we are still in the dark but still hopeful that, since it was Arun Jaitely's ministry in the first place that gave us the clearance, he will make sure that the shooting proceeds immediately.
shriram (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST)
You talk about "Freedom of Expression" what about ban on Nathuram Godse's play?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:56 IST)
Shriram: I had gone on record both to the press and in Parliament AGAINST the banning of Nathuram Godse.
smisra (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST)
Shabana-ji: how would you react to an oppressive system that *was* part of a religiously sanctioned system. For example, suppose hypothetically that it was clear beyond doubt that triple-talaq was *not* un-Islamic, but it is obviously oppressive... how would you react then and how would you reconcile trying to defend the Islamic religion along with criticizing the particular practice supported by the religion?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:58 IST)
Smisra: In my view, personal laws of ALL religions discriminate against women in matters of inheritance, divorce, marriage and that is why we must work towards a uniform civil code based on GENDER JUSTICE. We need to cull out all the just and equitable laws of all religions to form a blueprint for a common civil code.
Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST)
So Ma'am how are you spending these days there? Reading, planning strategy, meeting people etc... How do you like Varanasi? It is such a historic city. Have you been to Sarnath?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:1 IST)
Kirti Verma: Varansi to me embodies the true spirit of India, it feels like it lives in several centuries simultaneously. The people of Varansi have been very kind and respectful when I've gone out shopping, etc. There is great respect for my father, Kafi Azmi, since he hails from Azamgarh. But I have been housebound since today, just when I was planning to go to Sarnath 
Princess (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:58 IST)
ms azmi... do you think the protests are politically engineered, against you? after all, everyone knows u r virulently opposed to the bjp's politics....
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:2 IST)
Princess: The opposition to the film started much before people even knew that I was acting in the film. It will be unfair to say that I'm being discriminated against because I have different political views from the BJP.
Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:0 IST)
Ms Azmi, another very curious thing here is that none of the film fraternity seems to have come out in support of Water -- why is there such a lack of solidarity from among your kind?
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:4 IST)
Kirti Verma: That's not true. Mahesh Bhatt, Shatrughan Sinha, Amit Khanna and Pahlaj Nihalani, on behalf of their organisations Producers Guild, etc, have come out strongly in our support.
Aawara (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:9 IST)
Hi Shabanaji, what is the relevance of the film WATER in this millenium considering that it's a period film and whatever the sensitive issues it's touching.
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:9 IST)
Awaara: Although much has happened in terms of women's progress in the last 50 years, nobody can deny that we have a long way to go. According to recent report edited by Martha Chen, the incidence of mortality in widows is 85 % MORE than in married women of the same age. Isn't that something we need to think about??? I invite you to go and visit some of the present widows' homes, not only in Benares but in all parts of India and then decide whether the custom of discriminating against them still exists or not.
Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:9 IST)
Bye, everyone ____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#8 30 Nov 2007 00:20
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
 An interview with Shabana Azmi Saturday Apr 26 1:35 PM Ritusmita Biswas, TWF, Bollywood Trade News Network
Shabana Azmi: I meet Javed mostly at airport lounges
Shabana Azmi is almost a living legend in Indian cinema today with an oeuvre that spans parallel cinema as well as the commercial circuit. In a candid interview, Azmi talks about her cinema, life and views on a changing Bollywood. The actress who made her debut as a poor villager's wife in Shyam Benegal's ANKUR in the 70s to the recent Bollywood hit HONEYMOON TRAVELS, Shabana Azmi has done it all. She is utterly convincing in any role she takes on. However, being an actress is just one facet of this multidimensional personality. Recipient of numerous awards, including the Padmashri, Azmi has donned the hat of a Member of Parliament and the UN Goodwill Ambassador with equal elan. She is a strong advocate of human rights and is well-known for her fight for the rights of slum dwellers of Mumbai. Excerpts of an interview: Q: You believe in the theory that social change can be initiated by art. But you have also said that only commercial movies can bring a political or social change. Can you explain that? A: In India, this distinction between so-called art and mainstream cinema is so acute! As a matter of fact, art films focusing on social issues appeal only to the niche audience which is culturally aware and educated. On the contrary, the target audience of the commercial films is huge. The Indian audience likes to see women as the suffering protagonist, whether it is a mother, wife or sister. Women are cast in stereotype roles for ages. As long as this trend continues, the messages of change conveyed via the art film will fall into deaf ears. Q: Where do you see Indian cinema in the near future? A: Well, let me tell you that the myth 'Parallel cinema is dead' is not true at all. On the contrary, new breeds of directors are trying their hands at a new genre of realistic cinema that hitherto was not been attempted. My favourites are Kaizad Gustad, Deepa Mehta, Mira Nair and of course, Sudhir Mishra. They speak a language through their films that the average urban guy can relate to. They are also targeting an international audience. In fact, the Brand India now needs such filmmakers who will free the international audience from the stereotypes with which they associate India, i.e. poverty, fanaticism, etc. We notice a welcome change in the blurring of the line between commercial films and the traditional parallel cinema. The commercial movie has finally broken away from the typical stories of family drama or boy-meets-girl kind of romance. This is a welcome change from the perspective of mainstream films. In future, I envision Indian cinema to be more realistic, yet, sustaining the entertainment value associated with the commercial movie. Q: You have played a range of distinct and difficult roles. How much of homework did you have to do for them? A: The home work that one needs to do varies from one role to another. What I feel is that life itself is a big source of inspiration and knowledge. A talented actress has her eyes wide open and imbibes her lessons from life. Sometimes, however, you have to work a bit hard. For instance, for my role in Shyam Benegal's MANDI as a brothel 'madam'. I visited three brothels in three different locations. It was quite a learning experience, really. Q: You were already famous in the realms of art films. So what made you join the mainstream bandwagon? A: Let me say I wanted to stretch my imagination further. Shooting for HONEYMOON TRAVELS for e.g., was great fun. In commercial films, you get to portray a sense of an alternative reality. It can be challenging sometimes. Q: How was it to act for son Farhan, who produced HONEYMOON TRAVELS? A: Farhan is a responsible producer and he knows how to get work out of his actor/actress. He is very clear about his target audience and what kind of movie he wants to make. Q: Coming to your personal life what makes your marriage such a success in the flimsy Bollywood marriage scenario where marriages are breaking quite regularly? A: It is rather difficult to say what makes my marriage tick. Probably the fact that we are always apart and so never have enough time to do petty squabbles. People say Shabana and Javed are seen to be delighted in each other's company. Now tell me, why wouldn't that be as both of us rarely now meet at home and mostly at airport lounges when he is departing and I myself am arriving or vice versa! On a serious note, what I admire in Javed is his sharp wit and intellect. He can tickle your funny bone. We share a common background as well. I think these things worked in making my marriage a success ____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#9 04 May 2008 00:34
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
 Filmography of Shabana Azmi2007 Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd( February 23 2007) Cast Loins Of Punjab Presents( September 21 2007) Cast,Playback Singer Dus Kahaniyaan( December 7 2007) Cast 2006 15 Park Avenue( January 6 2006) Cast Umrao Jaan( November 3 2006) Cast Gulel( January 1 2006) Dialogue Writer,Associate Director 2004 Morning Raaga( October 29 2004) Cast 2003 Tehzeeb( December 5 2003) Cast 2000 Hari-Bhari( December 29 2000) Cast Gaja Gamini( December 1 2000) Guest Appearance 1999 Godmother( September 3 1999) Cast 1998 Bada Din( January 1 1998) Cast Fire( November 13 1998) Cast 1997 Saaz( January 1 1997) Cast Mrityudand( January 1 1997) Cast 1994 Muhafiz( January 1 1994) Cast 1993 Dharavi( January 1 1993) Cast 1992 Adharm( January 1 1992) Cast Anternaad( January 1 1992) Cast 1991 Ek Doctor Ki Maut( January 1 1991) Cast Disha( January 1 1991) Cast 1990 Muquaddar Ka Badshah( January 1 1990) Cast Amba( January 1 1990) Cast Ek Din Achanak( January 1 1990) Cast 1989 Oonch Neech Beech( January 1 1989) Cast Rakhwala( May 5 1989) Cast Main Azaad Hoon( December 15 1989) Cast 1988 Mr. X( January 1 1988) Cast Pestonjee( January 1 1988) Cast Mardon Wali Baat( January 1 1988) Cast Susman( January 1 1988) Cast 1985 Kamla( January 1 1985) Cast Lorie( January 1 1985) Cast Rahi Badal Gaye( January 1 1985) Cast 1984 Hum Rahe Na Hum( January 1 1984) Cast Sparsh( January 1 1984) Cast Kaamyab( January 1 1984) Cast Aaj Ka M.L.A.( January 1 1984) Cast Khandhar( January 1 1984) Cast Bhavna( January 1 1984) Cast Pyaasi Ankhen( January 1 1984) Cast Gangvaa( January 1 1984) Cast 1983 Log Kya Kahenge( January 1 1983) Cast Avtaar( January 1 1983) Cast Mandi( January 1 1983) Cast Doosri Dulhan( January 1 1983) Cast Masoom( January 1 1983) Cast Arth( January 1 1983) Cast Sweekar Kiya Maine( January 1 1983) Cast 1982 Raaste Pyar Ke( January 1 1982) Cast Anokha Bandhan( January 1 1982) Cast Suraag( January 1 1982) Cast Ashanti( January 1 1982) Cast Namkeen( January 1 1982) Cast Yeh Nazdeekiyan( January 1 1982) Cast 1981 Sameera( January 1 1981) Cast Ek Duje Ke Liye( January 1 1981) Cast Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Ata Hai( January 1 1981) Cast Hum Paanch( January 1 1981) Cast Jeena Yahan( January 1 1981) Cast Ek Hi Bhool( January 1 1981) Cast 1980 Thodisi Bewafai( January 1 1980) Cast Jwalamukhi( January 1 1980) Cast Yeh Kaisa Insaaf( January 1 1980) Cast Apne Paraye( January 1 1980) Cast Ek Baar Kaho( January 1 1980) Cast 1979 Bagula Bhagat( January 1 1979) Cast Junoon( January 1 1979) Cast Amardeep( January 1 1979) Cast Lahu Ke Do Rang( January 1 1979) Cast 1978 Swarg Nark( January 1 1978) Cast Devtaa( January 1 1978) Cast Toote Khilone( January 1 1978) Cast Atithee( January 1 1978) Cast 1977 Swami( January 1 1977) Cast Parvarish( January 1 1977) Cast Amar Akbar Anthony( January 1 1977) Cast Karm( January 1 1977) Cast Chor Sipahi( January 1 1977) Cast Khel Khilari Ka( January 1 1977) Cast Hira Aur Patthar( January 1 1977) Cast Shatranj Ke Khilari( January 1 1977) Cast Ek Hi Rasta( January 1 1977) Cast Kissa Kuris Ka( January 1 1977) Cast Aadha Din Aadhi Raat( January 1 1977) Cast Kanneshwaha Rama( January 1 1977) Cast 1976 Kadambari( January 1 1976) Cast Faasla( January 1 1976) Cast Vishwasghaat( January 1 1976) Cast Fakira( January 1 1976) Cast Shaque( January 1 1976) Cast 1975 Nishant( January 1 1975) Cast 1974 Ankur( January 1 1974) Cast Parinay( January 1 1974) Cast ____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#10 04 May 2008 00:36
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Music
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Shabana Azmi refuses to reveal much  5/5/2008 10:10:57 PM | Actor Shabana Azmi had always been eager to portray the role of the late Benazir Bhutto but it now seems, she is being a bit too secretive about this ambitious project |
Twenty five years ago one of India's most talented and versatile actors, Shabana Azmi was approached to play the late Pakistani leader Benazir Bhutto's character, and it's certainly one dream that has not been forgotten by her. In a recent interview, Shabana was heard quoting, "I thought, I was the only one who remembered the Benazir project. I'd love to play Benazir in a film." Though Shabana Azmi was quite forthcoming then about her dream role, she now seems a little hesitant to talk about her fascination to play the charismatic Benazir Bhutto. As Shabana Azmi states when asked about the role portrayal, "My lips are sealed about the project." But something certainly seems to be brewing as the buzz doing the rounds these days is that she might star in a film based on late Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rehman. Whether it's Ranbir Kapoor ready to play Rajiv Gandhi or Shabana Azmi to play Benazir Bhutto, it looks like Bollywood has developed a new found fetish of enacting political leaders. Shabana Azmi will be sharing screen space with actress Chitrangada Singh in a forthcoming movie 'Sorry Bhai' but considering the potential talent of Chitrangada, would Shabana feel scared of the fact that her role might get overshadowed in the film? But Shabana assertively declares, "Chitrangada is both pretty and talented. But no, I'm not at all scared of her presence in the film." In the film, Shabana would also be paired for the second time opposite actor Boman Irani and after witnessing amazing chemistry between the two in 'Honeymoon Travels', veiwers might get to see something similar in the upcoming film 'Sorry Bhai' as well. ____________ Music forms a part of me again It gives Shape to my faceless Expressions...To my Thoughts. {Alochana}
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#11 13 May 2008 09:20
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Music
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
 New Delhi, July 12 (PTI) Known for her penchant for social issues, veteran actress Shabana Azmi who is visiting the United Kingdom to meet Prince Charles, will recommend the British royal to extend his charity programmes to resolve urban and health problems in the country. The actress was invited along with her husband, noted lyricist Javed Akhtar, by the British crown prince as personal guests to "discuss long-term India-Britain relations with regard to charitable causes". "Prince Charles is planning to extend his charity programmes in India and had sought our advice on specific areas where his trust can spend money for long-term benefit of society," Azami told PTI. Azami, who is accompanying leading industrialists like Mukesh Ambani, Laxmi Mittal and Ratan Tata in the trip, will meet Price Charles at the Buckingham Palace and spend few days there. The actress, who runs an NGO which provides shelter to the homeless, has zeroed in on some areas where she said need immediate support. "We have decided to recommend three area - urban problems, water shedding, and universal health access - to Prince Charles to use his charity funds as these area need immediate help," she said. During her four-day visit, the actress and other invitees will also call on British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and attend proceedings of both Houses of the UK Parliament. Her visit is scheduled from July 12 to 16.
____________ Music forms a part of me again It gives Shape to my faceless Expressions...To my Thoughts. {Alochana}
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#12 18 Jul 2008 01:05
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Raja
Joined: June 2007
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Celebrity Profiles  Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi picture: Viral Bhayani Date of Birth: 18th September 1950 Shabana Azmi's father Kaifi Azmi was a renowned Urdu poet and writer and her mother, Shaukat Azmi, is a well known stage actress. Her brother Baba is a cinematographer.
She graduated from the Film and Television Institute in India and her first film, Ankur, shot her into national prominence with the top awards. Since her first movie in 1972, she has worked with most of the top directors of Hindi cinema, and the list of her notable films and awards is long.
Not shy of controversies, Shabana has played roles ranging from a lesbian on screen to activist and champion of minority rights. She is also known for her social activism off screen and has also been a member of parliament.
She continues to devote time to theatre and has acted in numerous international projects and languages including Norwegian.
Shabana is married to Javed Akhtar. ____________ “Simplicity. What turns me on.” Please enlighten me.
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#13 20 Aug 2008 10:45
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
Hindustan Times EXCLUSIVE - Why shoot the messenger? | | Shabana Azmi Actress |
THINGS VERY rarely catch me by surprise any more Yet I am taken completely unawares by the vicious ness of the attack against me for a remark I made in a recent television interview that I was denied a house in Mumbai because I am a Muslim. I am being called ungrateful, wretched and even a liar. But these are the same people who applauded me and called me a hero when I took on Imam Bukhari. A few years ago, Imam Bukhari had given a fatwa to Indian Muslims to go to Afghanistan and wage jehad. In an outraged response, I had said on a TV programme that I would request the Prime Minister (at that time Atal Bihari Vajpayee) to air-drop Imam Bukhari into Khandahar so he could be the first to wage his jehad — this would solve his problem and ours too. So infuriated was the Imam that he called me unprintable names as well as a kafir and a blot on the Muslim community . It remains for me a matter of the highest honour that both Houses of Parliament issued a statement condemning the Imam's utterance. I was moved to tears and my heart burst with pride. It gave me the much required ammunition and strengthened my resolve to never keep quiet in the face of outbursts by fundamentalist elements. Each time I take on the Muslim fundamentalist, I am applauded and hailed as a moderate liberal Muslim. But I am more than just that. I am a moderate liberal Indian and am very proud of being so. India has one of the finest Constitutions in the world. The Constitution provides for all her citizens, irrespective of class, caste or gender to demand their rights within its framework without fear and with authority . In the same interview that has become the subject of such mudslinging, I have also stated that the Indian Muslim feels safer in India than elsewhere because he has a stake and a space in the country's democracy. An ordinary Muslim can aspire to be come the President of India, a Shah Rukh Khan or an Irfan Pathan. That the time has come for Muslims to stop looking at themselves only as victims and do some soul-searching on the need for reform within the community Why then does only one . remark get pulled out of the interview and become the subject of such acrimony? Would it not be fair to assume that implicit in this hue and cry is the desire to shut up the liberal voice and demand of Muslims who are successful, to be good Uncle Toms? Have I ever been asked to apologise to men when I've talked about discrimination against women? Have I been asked to apologise to the rich be cause I've talked about the need to alleviate poverty? Of course discrimination exists in some sections of our society -- against all kinds of minorities; religious (look at what routinely happens with the Dalits), against women (for God's sake we are killing our girl child even before she is born), against homosexuals (Section 377 of the penal code treats them like crimi nals). What is the point in denying it? We need to bring these issues in the open and draw courage from the fact that there are also very robust resistance groups in all sections of our society that are opposing this tooth and nail so there is absolutely no cause for despair. India is a country of contradictions. It is equally true that a Dalit can aspire to be a Mayawati (perhaps the most formidable politician today), a woman can aspire to be the Prime Minister or President, and that the Hindi film industry is being virtually ruled by the Khans. Alas, it is also true that I was denied a flat in cosmopolitan Mumbai because Javed and I are Muslims - it was not because we are film people - a very famous film star lives in the same society It was not because we are non . vegetarians - the family we were to buy it from were themselves non-vegetarians. It was, we were told, by a shame-faced broker because we were Muslim! It happened not once but twice. It didn't come as a big surprise either because we knew of several people who had had similar experiences. This is why I find it so curious that so many people are reacting now as if this is some earth-shattering revelation. A TV channel, not so long ago, had carried an entire sting operation where a young couple posing as house-hunters were clearly told that they could not be given a house in the locality of their choice because they were Muslim. I personally know of at least a dozen such cases. Wake up guys. Get a reality check. Why shoot the messenger? Don't try to throttle the voice of the moderate liberal and brand her or him a communalist when she or he brings to light the fact that there are some genuine grievances that must be addressed. It can prove to be very dangerous. If the liberal moderate voice is silenced through canard, through innuendo, through intimidation, then the space will be left wide open only for the extremist and the hardliners. And they need to be defeated, whoever they may be. The fight today is not between the Hindu and the Muslim; the fight is between the moderate and the extremist. We need to have Hindu and Muslim moderates on the same side against the extremist Hindu and Muslim on the other. letters@hindustantimes.com
____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#14 24 Aug 2008 02:07
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sur
Joined: November 2006
Posts: 10620
Location: Virginia
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Re: SHABANA AZMI
....
____________ "I am a dreamer,I collect all the smiles from My yesterday,
Neatly pack them into words and hide them in my heart,
I call them "MEMORIES" Music has no boundary.
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#15 28 Aug 2008 00:43
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