Veteran actor Shabana Azmi turned 75 on Thursday, and warm wishes poured in from across the film industry. Among those who extended heartfelt birthday greetings were actors Urmila Matondkar, Divya Dutta, and Tannishtha Chatterjee — each sharing personal memories and tributes to celebrate the legendary actress.

Urmila Matondkar took to Instagram to post a series of nostalgic photos with Azmi, including stills from the 1983 classic Masoom, where a young Matondkar played Azmi’s daughter.

“Year 1983… location Janki Kutir. Tiny, anxious and nervous me sees the great Shabana Azmi for a photoshoot of Masoom, and thereafter it’s been an exceptional bond of love, respect, admiration, learning, laughter, madness and so much more,” she wrote.

Matondkar thanked Azmi for being a constant source of inspiration and support. “Thank you for always being there, inspiring tremendously on screen and caressing me with all your generosity and warmth. Deeply cherish your presence in my life,” she added.

Divya Dutta, who co-starred with Azmi in Chalk n Duster, also shared a moving video montage of their moments together, set to the tune of “Do Naina Aur Ek Kahani.”

“You became my favourite from the moment I saw you on screen,” Dutta wrote. “And when life gave me the chance to meet you and know you, I became a huge admirer! There’s something about you that inspires me every day — including that naughtiness!”

She continued, “Thank you for loving me right back, always having my back, and holding my hand tight. You are supremely precious in my life. Love you big time, and utmost respect. Many, many happy returns of the day @azmishabana18!”

Tannishtha Chatterjee also joined in with a sweet Instagram Story, sharing a photo from a Holi celebration with Azmi and writing simply, “HPY BIRTHDAY!!! @azmishabana18.”

With a career spanning over five decades, Shabana Azmi is one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actors. A five-time National Award winner, she is known for her powerful performances in films like Ankur, Arth, Mandi, Fire, and Godmother. Azmi is also a prominent social activist and has been honoured with the Padma Shri (1998) and Padma Bhushan (2012).

She was last seen in Netflix’s Dabba Cartel and Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.