Reel Awards 2025

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Shabana Azmi

Shabana Azmi is one of India’s most revered actors, celebrated for her impactful performances in both mainstream and independent films. She made her debut in 1974 with Shyam Benegal’s Ankur and quickly rose to prominence. Azmi is renowned for her roles in iconic films such as Arth, Mandi, Khandhar, Masoom, Fire and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani, among others, where she portrayed deeply complex and unforgettable characters. Many of her films are regarded as milestones in Indian cinema, often addressing progressive and socially reformative themes.
 
 
Throughout her illustrious career, Azmi has received numerous accolades, including five National Film Awards for Best Actress. In recognition of her contributions, the Government of India bestowed upon her the Padma Shri in 1998 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012. Beyond her achievements in cinema, she is a prominent figure in theatre and is deeply committed to various social causes. With a career spanning over five decades, Shabana Azmi continues to be a towering influence in Indian cinema, celebrated for her exceptional artistry and dedication.

Actor

SHABANA AZMI

Sachin Pilgaonkar

Sachin Pilgaonkar is a distinguished figure in Hindi and Marathi cinema, known for his remarkable versatility as a director, producer, writer, actor, and singer. With a career spanning over six decades, he began as a child actor, earning recognition in films such as Jewel Thief, Brahmachari, and Mela. Transitioning to leading roles, he achieved unexpected success with Geet Gaata Chal. Pilgaonkar has also left an indelible mark as a supporting actor in classics like Sholay, Avtaar, Sur Sangam, Satte Pe Satta and Balika Badhu.
 
 
In addition to his film career, he became a household name in television with the immensely popular sitcom Tu Tu Main Main. Pilgaonkar’s contributions to cinema have earned him numerous accolades, including four Maharashtra State Film Awards and two National Film Awards. He was a key member of the celebrated quartet of Marathi cinema, alongside Laxmikant Berde, Ashok Saraf, and Mahesh Kothare. Last year, his directorial venture Navra Maza Navsacha 2 emerged as one of Marathi cinema’s biggest hits, reaffirming his enduring legacy.

Actor & Filmmaker

SACHIN PILGAONKAR

Madhur Bhandarkar

Madhur Bhandarkar's journey into the world of cinema began while working in a video cassette library, which exposed him to a wide range of films. After serving as an assistant to Ram Gopal Varma, he made his directorial debut with Trishakti in 1999. Over the years, he has earned three National Film Awards for his critically acclaimed films Chandni Bar, Page 3, and Traffic Signal. Additionally, his co-production Avijatrik won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Bengali. In 2016, he was honoured with the Padma Shri for his contributions to Indian cinema.
 
 
Bhandarkar's storytelling is known for its distinct style, often delving into the darker aspects of society and the glamour world. Describing his films as a way to “hold up a mirror to society,” he often explores themes of hardship and resilience. Notably, many of his films are led by strong female protagonists, portraying their struggles and agency. Some prominent examples include Tabu in Chandni Bar, Raveena Tandon in Satta, Konkona Sen Sharma in Page 3, Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Fashion, and Kareena Kapoor Khan in Heroine.

Filmmaker

MADHUR BHANDARKAR

Urmila Matondkar

Urmila Matondkar, a name synonymous with brilliance and versatility in Indian cinema, is far more than just a star. Celebrated for her captivating screen presence, she revolutionized Bollywood with her bold choices and fearless performances. From the innocence of Masoom to the sensuous allure of Rangeela, she effortlessly emerged as a symbol of grace, talent, and charisma. A true trailblazer, Urmila shattered stereotypes with unconventional roles in films like Satya and Kaun, earning widespread critical acclaim.
 
 
Her illustrious career is a vibrant tapestry of diverse characters, each brought to life with unparalleled passion and precision. Beyond the silver screen, Urmila has transitioned gracefully into politics and public service, channelling her determination to create meaningful change. With an inspiring legacy and an aura that continues to captivate, Urmila Matondkar remains a timeless icon—an embodiment of elegance, resilience, and the art of reinvention at every step of her remarkable journey.

URMILA MATONDKAR

Lillete Dubey

Lillete Dubey, a celebrated figure in Indian theatre and cinema, embodies talent and grace. With a natural flair for the arts, she has captivated audiences through her compelling performances and exceptional storytelling. As the visionary founder of the renowned 'The Primetime Theatre Company' Dubey has transformed Indian theatre by blending contemporary themes with traditional narratives. Her artistic journey extends beyond the stage, leaving an indelible mark on cinema with her versatility across various genres. She is widely recognised for her acclaimed roles in Zubeidaa, Monsoon Wedding, Kal Ho Naa Ho, My Brother…Nikhil, Delhi in a Day, and Bow Barracks Forever, among others. 
 
 Known for her commanding presence, Dubey brings depth and authenticity to her characters, earning critical and audience acclaim. Through her work, she consistently challenges societal norms, encouraging viewers to explore the complexities of human emotions. Lillete Dubey stands as a lasting inspiration for aspiring artists, demonstrating how passion, dedication, and creativity can redefine the world of performing arts.

LILLETE DUBEY

Mukesh Chhabra

Mukesh Chhabra is a powerhouse in the world of film casting. An alumnus of the National School of Drama, he began his journey as an assistant casting director with Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Rang De Basanti in 2006. With over 300 films, web series, and commercials to his name, one of Chhabra’s standout achievements remains casting hundreds of actors for Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur.
 
 
 Chhabra has a keen eye for talent, discovering stars like Sushant Singh Rajput, Rajkummar Rao, Sanya Malhotra, and Fatima Sana Shaikh. Beyond casting, he has also showcased his acting skills in projects like Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2, Jawan, and Chamak. In 2020, he made his directorial debut with Dil Bechara, which became Sushant Singh Rajput’s poignant swan song.
 
 
Chhabra’s upcoming projects include Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious two-part epic, Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, touted as one of India’s biggest releases, and Salman Khan’s Sikandar. Additionally, he is currently working on his second directorial venture, further solidifying his multifaceted presence in the industry.

Casting Director & Filmmaker

MUKESH CHHABRA

Nitya Mehra

Nitya Mehra began her career in filmmaking as a production assistant on a project in New York. Before stepping into direction, she gained valuable experience by assisting renowned filmmakers such as Farhan Akhtar on Lakshya and Don, Ang Lee on Life of Pi, and Mira Nair on The Namesake and The Reluctant Fundamentalist. In 2013, Mehra made her directorial debut with the Indian adaptation of the American series 24, starring Anil Kapoor.
 
 
Three years later, she directed her first feature film, Baar Baar Dekho, a romantic drama with a time-travel twist, featuring Katrina Kaif and Sidharth Malhotra. Known for her unique storytelling style, Mehra has garnered widespread acclaim for projects like the popular web series Made in Heaven and the short film Chaand Mubarak from the anthology Unpaused. Last year, she directed Big Girls Don’t Cry, a coming-of-age drama exploring themes of self-discovery and sisterhood, which received significant attention and praise.

NITYA MEHRA

Tavishi Paitandy

Tavishi Paitandy is the Entertainment and Lifestyle Editor at News18. With more than two decades of experience as an entertainment journalist, she has carved a niche as an insightful outsider in Bollywood’s inner circles. Her extensive industry knowledge allows her to deeply understand the passion fuelling the stars and the Indian entertainment landscape.
 
 
Balancing this understanding with her journalistic integrity, Paitandy offers a critical and objective analysis of the film world’s creative output. As a key voice for News18, she brings a strong editorial perspective to a jury that includes some of the industry’s most influential figures.

Editor, Entertainment & Lifestyle, News18

TAVISHI PAITANDY

 THE JURY

20th March, 2025

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about us

Welcome to the News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 - a grand celebration of outstanding storytelling and creative excellence in Indian cinema and the ever-evolving OTT landscape. Continuing the legacy of past editions, we honour the art that mesmerises audiences and reshapes the world of entertainment.
 
 
From breathtaking cinematic masterpieces to daring digital narratives, the Showsha Reel Awards shine a spotlight on the talent, passion, and innovation propelling Indian entertainment to new heights. Join us in applauding these visionary storytellers and prepare for an extraordinary journey into the vibrant heart of Indian entertainment!