Legendary filmmaker Shyam Benegal's 1973 film Ankur marked the acting debut of Shabana Azmi, but did you know she wasn't the first choice for the film? Aparna Sen, a renowned actress and director, revealed in a recent conversation that she was offered the role but turned it down due to her lack of confidence in playing a household help. Sen explained that she was hesitant to take on the role because she didn't feel confident in speaking Hindi with a dialect and spatterings of Telugu. Shyam Benegal had asked several people before offering the role to Sen, and when she turned it down, he sent her the synopsis back. Sen expressed gratitude that Benegal didn't press the issue, as it allowed Shabana Azmi to take on the role and deliver a critically acclaimed performance. The film Ankur went on to earn massive acclaim and Shabana Azmi won the National Award for Best Actress. Aparna Sen and Shabana Azmi later became friends and collaborated on several films, including Sati (1989) and the 2017 drama Sonata.
Aparna Sen Reveals Why She Turned Down Shyam Benegal's Breakout Film Ankur
Ankur marked the directorial debut of Shyam Benegal as well as the acting debut of Shabana Azmi. She went on to win the National Award for her performance. | Bollywood
