Shabana Azmi was born on September 18, 1950, in Hyderabad, India. She hails from a prominent literary family, being the daughter of renowned poet Kaifi Azmi and actress Shaukat Azmi. Azmi graduated from the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune and made her film debut in 1974 with "Ankur," directed by Shyam Benegal. She quickly became a leading figure in Indian parallel cinema, known for her powerful performances in films that often tackled social issues. Over her illustrious career, she has won numerous accolades, including five National Film Awards for Best Actress and several Filmfare Awards. Besides acting, Azmi is an active social and women's rights advocate and serves as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Population Fund. She is married to poet and screenwriter Javed Akhtar since 1984.