Veteran actress Shabana Azmi is all set to receive a grand honour at the Jagran Film Festival (JFF) 2025, marking her 50 glorious years in Indian cinema. Known for her stellar performances and fearless choice of roles, Azmi has been a trailblazer in Bollywood as well as in parallel cinema.
Her recognition at JFF not only celebrates her cinematic excellence but also highlights her journey as a cultural icon who continues to inspire generations. The milestone has created immense buzz among fans and film enthusiasts alike.
Jagran Film Festival 2025: A Star-Studded Celebration
The 13th edition of Rajnigandha presents Jagran Film Festival, the world’s largest travelling film festival, will be held in Delhi from September 4 to 7, 2025. This year’s edition will not only showcase global cinema but also honour legends who have transformed the industry.
Shabana Azmi’s tribute stands out as the festival’s biggest highlight, making it one of the most-awaited events on the film calendar. Fans are excited to witness the gathering of stars and cinematic brilliance under one roof.
The retrospective will cover Azmi’s career from Ankur (1974), her debut film, to her recent impactful roles. This journey will allow audiences to relive some of the most iconic moments in Indian cinema. The event will also be a reminder of how her artistry shaped narratives beyond glamour.

Shabana Azmi’s Remarkable 50-Year Journey
From parallel cinema classics to mainstream hits, Shabana Azmi has consistently broken barriers with her acting. Known for her unforgettable performances in films like Arth, Masoom, Fire, and Neerja, her work continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
Her influence goes beyond cinema, as she has also been a passionate voice for social issues, women’s rights, and cultural reforms.
Speaking about her journey, Azmi said:
“Cinema has been my greatest teacher and lifelong companion. These 50 years have been a journey of learning, discovery, and the joy of telling stories that matter.”
Her heartfelt words capture the essence of her career — one that is driven not just by fame, but by purpose and passion.
What Makes This Honour Special
Being celebrated at Jagran Film Festival 2025 adds a new dimension to Azmi’s golden milestone. JFF is known for bringing together diverse cinematic voices and honouring legends who have left an indelible mark.
For Azmi, this tribute signifies both recognition of her past achievements and encouragement for the future, as she continues to take on powerful roles in films and web series.
The Journey Continues
For Shabana Azmi, the Jagran Film Festival 2025 is not just a look back, but also a step forward. As she beautifully puts it, “As long as there are stories to tell, there will always be a role to play.”
This celebration is a reminder of her incredible legacy — one that bridges the old with the new, and art with activism. Fans and cinephiles now eagerly await this cinematic tribute, which promises to be a defining moment of the year.