Mumbai, India – The News18 Showsha Reel Awards, set to take place on March 20, are preparing to honor the brightest and best in Indian cinema with an illustrious jury panel spearheading the evaluation process. This year’s awards ceremony, hosted in the bustling city of Mumbai, gathers a formidable lineup of industry stalwarts to select winners across various categories.
Leading the jury is the iconic Shabana Azmi, who has been a significant figure in the film industry for over five decades. Azmi, a recipient of numerous awards including five National Film Awards, is known not only for her compelling performances but also for her commitment to social advocacy, particularly in women’s rights and social equality.
Joining her on the panel are respected names such as Sachin Pilgaonkar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Lillete Dubey, Mukesh Chhabra, Nitya Mehra, and Tavishi Paitandy, each bringing a unique perspective and vast experience to the table. Pilgaonkar, a revered actor and filmmaker in Hindi and Marathi cinema, has been celebrated for his work both on screen and behind the camera. His recent directorial venture, “Navra Maza Navsacha 2,” was met with great acclaim.
Madhur Bhandarkar, another panelist, is famed for his socially charged films that often illuminate the harsh realities of life. His films like “Chandni Bar” and “Page 3” have not only won critical acclaim but also multiple National Film Awards, cementing his reputation as a filmmaker with a keen eye for storytelling that reflects societal issues.
Theater veteran Lillete Dubey has made significant contributions to both Indian theater and cinema. As founder of The Primetime Theatre Company, Dubey has been pivotal in integrating contemporary themes with traditional narratives, enriching the Indian theatre scene substantially.
Mukesh Chhabra, a casting director turned director, has influenced the Bollywood industry by discovering some of the most talented actors working today. His directorial debut, “Dil Bechara,” showcased his depth of understanding of the craft.
Filmmaker Nitya Mehra, who has worked both in Bollywood and Hollywood, brings a global perspective to the panel. Her directorial ventures like “Baar Baar Dekho” and “Made in Heaven” have been lauded for their innovative narratives and strong character portrayals.
Rounding out the jury is Tavishi Paitandy, News18.com’s Entertainment and Lifestyle Editor, whose deep understanding of the entertainment industry enhances the jury’s capability to judge a diverse range of cinema.
Together, this distinguished group concluded their deliberations at Luuma House in Juhu, Mumbai, ensuring a rigorous and thorough evaluation process of the year’s cinematic submissions.
With such a knowledgeable jury at its core, the News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 is set to be a memorable event that celebrates the powerful, transformative nature of cinema. The awards aim to spotlight those who continue to push creative boundaries and deliver compelling storytelling in the film industry.
Stay tuned as the celebration of cinematic excellence unfolds next month, promising to acknowledge and award the finest talents in the field.
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