Veteran actor Shabana Azmi is set to be honoured by the International Film Festival of South Asia Toronto in recognition of her exceptional contributions to cinema, the organisers have announced.
The 13th edition of the International Film Festival of South Asia Toronto, running from October 10 to 20, will feature premieres and special events with top industry names like Imtiaz Ali, Deepa Mehta, Boman Irani, and Anup Singh. Shabana Azmi, one of Indian cinema's finest, will be honoured with a tribute celebrating her 50-year career, including a special screening of Shyam Benegal's classic ‘Mandi’.
The festival will also feature a masterclass and a musical tribute titled "Shab-e-Sur," celebrating Shabana Azmi’s cinematic legacy, along with a special dinner in her honour hosted by Turkish Airlines, according to the press release.
IFFSA Toronto Festival Director Sunny Gill emphasised the goal of honouring icons who have shaped cinema. “This year’s celebration will be a vibrant tribute to the rich legacy of South Asian cinema, filled with unforgettable moments, insightful discussions, and a heartfelt homage to those who have defined our cinematic world,” Gill said.
Actor-turned-director Boman Irani's debut film, ‘The Mehta Boys’, co-written with Oscar winner Alexander Dinelaris Jr, known for ‘Birdman’ and ‘The Revenant’, will serve as the festival’s opening film.
