Queen of National Awards: Shabana Azmi Bags 5 Titles in 25 Years, First Won It for Her Debut Film

In the glitzy world of Bollywood, where awards are a mark of both talent and prestige, few honours hold as much weight as the National Film Awards. While many stars spend decades hoping to earn one, Shabana Azmi created history by winning it right at the start of her career—and never looked back.

National Award for Her First Film

Shabana Azmi made her debut in Shyam Benegal's critically acclaimed film ‘Ankur’ (1974). Portraying the role of a Dalit woman with striking realism, her performance left a mark on Indian cinema. In 1975, she won her first National Award for this very role—an exceptional feat for any newcomer.

Three Awards in Just 10 Years

Azmi’s powerful acting streak continued:

• 1982: She won her second National Award for the film ‘Arth’, where she portrayed a woman dealing with betrayal and self-discovery.

• 1984: Her role in ‘Khandhar’, a melancholic tale of longing and loss, earned her the third award in less than a decade.

Most National Awards for an Actress

Shabana Azmi became the actress with the highest number of National Film Awards as her excellence on screen continued:

• 1985: She received her fourth National Award for ‘Paar’, a hard-hitting film on poverty and oppression, co-starring Naseeruddin Shah and Om Puri.

• 1999: Azmi bagged her fifth National Award for ‘Godmother’, based on the life of Gujarat’s feared yet respected gangster Santokben Jadeja.

An Inspiring Legacy

From debut to decades of dominance, Shabana Azmi’s journey defines cinematic excellence. While others chase accolades, she set a benchmark, becoming not just a star, but a symbol of serious acting in Indian cinema.