Ila Arun reacts to Shyam Benegal death, calls him 'Bhisma Pitamah of Parallel cinema': 'I feel like orphan' | Exclusive

Acclaimed filmmaker Shyam Benegal died on December 23, days after celebrating his 90th birthday (December 14). Known for his acclaimed films, such as Mandi, Ankur, Zubeida, Manthan, and Bhumika, Shyam has always stirred conversation and highlighted issues related to society and women through his work. Soon after the news of his demise, DNA India got in touch with Ila Arun, who expressed her thoughts on the demise of her 'godfather'. For the unversed, Shyam introduced Ila in Bollywood with Mandi, and after his demise, the actress said that she's feeling like an 'orphan'

Expressing her shock at the news Ila said, "It's heartbreaking, saddening news. I had a very close relationship with him. He was my mentor, my godfather. I feel like an orphan. He was not just a filmmaker, but a mentor to all of us. Be it Shabana (Azmi), Kulbhushan (Kharbanda) ji, Om Puri ji un sabko saath lana, zindagi se parichay karana, unke jo subjects the, woh life ka alag perspective dete the. Chahe woh Mandi ho, my first film, ya unki jo baki films ho. Woh sabko ek saath rakhte the, humare family member the" 

Ila further said, "I'm really shattered that I missed attending his recent birthday bash. On that day (December 14) I had my book launch, and the longest chapter I wrote is on him. Ever since I returned to Mumbai, I tried reaching out to him. Mujhe darr lag raha tha ki kahi kuch bura na ho jaye, aur wohi hua." 

Ila said that now she feels lonely for the loss of her special person. "For me, an era has ended. I'm feeling lonely. I used to be proud saying, 'Main Shyam babu ke saath kaam kar rahi hoon'. He's not just a mentor, but a father to me. Even when he was unwell, he used to call me. I can still hear his words, 'Ila, how are you?"

Ila expressed her grief about not giving her book to Shyam, "I met Govind (Nihalani), I told him that I will give my next copy to Shyam babu, I still kept it ready in a bag, par woh reh gaya." Ila concluded by saying, "Shyam babu parallel cinema ke woh Bhisma Pitamaha hai."