Renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal, often regarded as the pioneer of parallel cinema, has passed away on Monday. He was 90.

The filmmaker passed away at Mumbai's Wockhardt Hospital due to chronic kidney disease, Pia Benegal told PTI.

"He passed away at 6.38 pm at Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central. He had been suffering from chronic kidney disease for several years but it had gotten very bad. That's the reason for his death," she said.

Wockhardt Hospital sources said Benegal had been admitted in the ICU.

In his prolific career, Benegal made films on diverse issues, documentaries and television serials, including "Bharat Ek Khoj" and "Samvidhaan". He had celebrated his 90th birthday just 10 days ago on December 14.

Widely considered one of the greatest filmmakers post-1970s, Benegal's contributions to Indian cinema have left an indelible mark on the industry. Known for his thought-provoking films that addressed social issues and human rights, Benegal redefined Indian cinema through his unique narrative style.

Benegal's first four feature films—Ankur (1973), Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), and Bhumika (1977)—established him as a pioneer of the new wave film movement of that era. His films Mammo (1994), Sardari Begum (1996), and Zubeidaa (2001), which collectively form the Muslim Women Trilogy, also won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi. Benegal has won the prestigious National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi a total of seven times.

Throughout his illustrious career, Benegal received numerous accolades for his work. He was honored with eighteen National Film Awards, a Filmfare Award, and a Nandi Award. In 2005, he was bestowed with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest award in the field of cinema, recognizing his immense contributions to the industry.

Benegal's influence extended beyond filmmaking, as he was also recognized by the Government of India for his artistic achievements. In 1976, he was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian honor, and in 1991, he received the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honor, for his exceptional work in the arts.