Shabana Azmi is my favourite: Priyanka Chopra

Bollywood actress-singer Priyanka Chopra says Shabana Azmi, who turned 65 on Friday, is her inspiration in the showbiz world.

“Happy bday @AzmiShabana! My favourite… Always look up to you so much! Lots of love,” Priyanka, who is currently in the US, posted on Twitter.

Shabana, the wife of noted lyricist Javed Akhtar, started her career with Shyam Benegal’s directoria debut “Ankur” in 1974 and soon became one of the leading actresses of Parallel Cinema.

Her performances in films in a variety of genres have generally earned her praise and awards, which include a record of five wins of the National Film Award for best actress and several international honours.

Actress-producer Dia Happy wrote, “Happy Birthday @AzmiShabana. You are awesome and I am grateful to have your humanity inspire me.”

“Happy Bday @AzmiShabana You are always loved admired…

My absolutely fave actor!!,” Huma Qureshi tweeted.

The “Masoom” actress was happy to see the reponse.

“Am overwhelmed by the love and affection of birthday greetings pouring in already. Feel loved and respected. Thanku all you are my strength.”

In her more than four decade long career, Shabana has appeared in over 120 Hindi and Bengali films in both mainstream and independent cinema.

She will be seen next in Aishwarya Rai Bachchan-starrer “Jazbaa”, which hit theatres next month.

Inputs by PTI