Toronto: Indian actress Shabana Azmi was presented with the Award of Excellence at the ReelWorld Film Festival here in recognition of her contribution to the independent film industry. Speaking after receiving the award Sunday, Shabana said, “Winning an award is a happy thing for an actor. You know when your work is recognised, it becomes even more meaningful.” The actress, who has given powerful performances in several off-beat films, described as “very liberating” the new trend catching on in Indian cinema where it was becoming commercially viable to make niche films. Shabana’s ‘Morning Raga’ was screened at the festival. — HNS