Shabana Azmi

Shabana Azmi born September 18 1950 is an Indian actress of film television and theatre as well as a womens rights activist and parliamentarian An alumna of the Film and Television Institute of India of Pune she debuted in Ankur 1974 and quickly became one of the leading actresses of parallel cinema an Indian New Wave movement known for its serious content and neorealism Recognized as being among the most acclaimed actresses of her country she has received a record of five National Film Awards for Best Actress six Filmfare Awards several international accolades and the Padma Shri the fourth highest civilian honour awarded by the Government of India and the Padma Bhushan the third highest civilian honour awarded by the Government of India She is best known for her portrayals of unconventional female characters and many of her films have won praise for depicting progressive ideals