Celebrated actress Shabana Azmi has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of her prolific contribution to Indian cinema and as a campaigner for women’s rights.
The 73-year-old winner of five National Awards for Best Actress and six Filmfare Awards, who was in London for a celebration of her 50 years in cinema at the annual UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF), received the honour at a ceremony last week.
The Freedom of the City of London dates back to the 13th century and is conferred upon individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Freedom of the City of London award. It is a testament to the power of cinema and activism that we are able to transcend borders and make a meaningful impact on society,” said Azmi.
“I am grateful for this recognition and remain committed to using my voice and platform to advocate for positive change,” she said.
She was nominated by Alderman Alastair King DL and Deputy Brian Mooney BEM for the award, conferred by the financial hub of London referred to as the City of London or the Square Mile.
Azmi made her debut in Satyajit Ray’s 1974 classic Ankur, among the films screened at UKAFF this year as part of its “Celebrating the Golden Girl of Indian Cinema” segment. Outside the world of stage and screen, the award recognises her as a strong advocate for public health and women’s rights, serving as President of Nivara Hakk — a housing rights non-governmental organisation — and heading the Mijwan Welfare Society, focusing on the upliftment of rural India.
The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the UK capital’s Square Mile, committed to supporting a diverse and sustainable London. Recent high-profile recipients of the Freedom of the City of London include former England footballer Ian Wright, double Olympic gold medallist Tom Dean and the UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty.
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