For over forty years, Shyam Benegal has been one the leading forces in Indian cinema. Informed by a rich political and philosophical sensibility and a mastery of the craft of filmmaking, Benegal is both of, and not of, Bollywood. Focusing on its philosophical depth, Samir Chopra identifies three key aspects of Benegals oueuvre: a trio of films which signalled to middle-class India that a revolt was brewing in Indias hinterlands; two sets of movies which make powerful feminist statements and showcase strong female characters; and Benegals interpretation, translation, and reimagining of literary works of diverse provenances and artistic impulses