London: Famous actress Shabana Azmi has been honored with the Freedom of the City of London for her remarkable contribution to Indian cinema and campaigner for women's rights.

The 73-year-old winner of five National Awards and six Filmfare Awards for Best Actress, who was in London to celebrate her 50 years in cinema at the annual UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF), received the honor at a ceremony . Week.

The Freedom of the City of London dates back to the 13th century and was granted to individuals to pay tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.

“I am extremely honored 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 boundaries and make a meaningful impact on society,” Azmi said.

"I am grateful for this recognition and am committed to using my voice as a platform to advocate for positive change," she said.

He was nominated by Alderman Alistair King DL and Deputy Brian Mooney BEM for the award, which is presented by the City of London or the Square Mile, London's financial centre.

“I am delighted to nominate Shabana for this award for her remarkable contributions on and off screen. With an impressive acting career, coupled with her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place, it is no surprise that she is regarded as a role model by many women who look to her for inspiration,” Alderman King said.Azmi made her debut with Satyajit Ray's 1974 classic 'Ankur', among the films screened as part of the "Celebrating the Golden Girl o Indian Cinema" segment at UKAFF this year. Outside the world of stage and screen, the award recognizes her as a strong advocate for public health and women's rights, serving as the chairperson of Niwara Haqq, a housing rights NGO that focuses on rural upliftment. While doing this, he is the head of Mijwan Welfare Society. India.

“His undeniable talent, commitment and dedication make him a leader in global cinema; The versatility and authenticity of the characters she plays has helped inspire many women around the world,” said Chris Hayward, City of Londo Corporation Policy Chairman.

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 medalist Tom Dean and the UK's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty.

Azmi's City of London accolade was followed by the Tongues on Fire Golden Flame Awards at the closing ceremony on Sunday, where the veteran actress was honored for her contribution to Indian cinema.

While renowned playback and classical singer Kavita Krishnamurthy was honored with the Golden Flame Lifetime Achievement Award, designer Rin Dhaka received the Flame Award for Celebrating Sustainable Fashion and Supriya Pathak won the Flame Best Actor Award for the film 'Baby Castro', which Screening was done. annual festival.