Legendary Odia actor Uttam Mohanty, a towering figure in Odisha’s film industry, passed away on Thursday in Delhi at the age of 66. The veteran actor, who was undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis at Medanta Hospital, left behind an indelible legacy in Indian cinema.
A Glorious Career Spanning Over Four Decades
Mohanty was one of the most celebrated actors in Odia cinema, starring in over 130 films throughout his illustrious career. He made his acting debut in 1977 with Abhimaan, directed by Sadhu Meher, and quickly rose to fame with blockbuster films like Danda Balunga and Kie Jite Kie Haare.
Beyond Odia films, he also made a mark in Bengali cinema, appearing in around 30 Bengali films. Additionally, he acted in the Hindi film Naya Zaher, showcasing his versatility across multiple industries.
Recognitions and Honours
Mohanty’s contributions to the Odia film industry earned him numerous accolades. He was honoured with the prestigious Jayadev Puraskar in 1999, one of the highest awards in Odisha’s film fraternity. In 2012, he received the Odisha Living Legend Award, further cementing his status as a cultural icon. Over the years, he won multiple Odisha State Film Awards for his outstanding performances.
State Honours and Tributes Pour In
Recognizing his immense contribution to Odia cinema, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that Mohanty’s last rites would be performed with full state honours.
Expressing his grief, Majhi stated,
“Uttam Mohanty was like a guiding star in the Odia film industry. For over two decades, he remained an unrivaled hero. He was an icon of the Odia art world. Through his acting in Odia, Bengali, and even Hindi films, he elevated the Odia film industry to new heights. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Odia artistic community.”
Prominent political figures also paid their respects. BJP National Vice President and Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda mourned the actor’s passing, calling it “the end of an era in the Odia film industry.”
“I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear about the demise of Uttam Mohanty, a beloved and renowned actor known in every household of Odisha. His invaluable contribution to the Odia film industry will always be remembered. Praying for the departed soul’s eternal peace, I extend my deepest condolences to the grieving family,” he wrote on X.
A Lasting Legacy
With a career spanning over four decades, Uttam Mohanty’s impact on Odia cinema is unparalleled. He entertained generations of audiences, setting new standards for storytelling and performance. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of millions, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.
His final rites will be conducted with full state honours, marking a fitting tribute to an actor who dedicated his life to cinema