Uttam Mohanty: The End of an Era for Odia Cinema

Veteran Odia actor Uttam Mohanty passed away on Thursday night at the age of 66 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Delhi. His death marks the end of an era for Odia cinema, leaving a void in the hearts of his fans and the artistic community.

Mohanty, widely regarded as the quintessential heartthrob of Odia cinema, redefined the industry with his charm, versatility, and natural on-screen presence. He had been suffering from acute liver ailments and was airlifted to Delhi from Bhubaneswar on February 8 for treatment.

Early Life and Career

Born in Baripada in 1958, Uttam Mohanty’s early life and passion for drama during school laid the foundation for his cinematic journey. He made his debut in 1977 with the film ‘Abhimaan’, quickly establishing himself as a bankable lead in Ollywood. Over his prolific career, he acted in more than 130 Odia films, around 30 Bengali films, and even ventured into Hindi cinema with ‘Naya Zaher’.

A Guiding Star in Odia Cinema

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over Mohanty’s demise, stating, “Uttam Mohanty was like a guiding star in the Odia film industry. For over two decades, he remained an unrivalled hero in Odia cinema. He was an icon of the Odia art world. Through his acting in Odia, Bengali, and even in Hindi films, he elevated the Odia film industry to new heights. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Odia artistic community.” The Chief Minister also ordered that Mohanty’s last rites be conducted with full state honors.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed his condolences, saying, “The demise of veteran Odia actor and legendary figure of the Odia film industry, Uttam Mohanty, is an irreparable loss to the cultural world of Odisha. He was not just an actor but a member of every Odia household. With his remarkable performances, he earned a permanent place in the hearts of people. His passing has left a great void in Odisha’s cultural sphere.”

Notable Works and Achievements

Mohanty’s best performances include films like ‘Nijhum Ratira Sathi’ (1979), ‘Phula Chandana’ (1982), ‘Jhiati Sita Pari’ (1983), and ‘Danda Balunga’ (1984). His transition from lead roles to impactful character parts as he matured ensured his legacy would continue to influence both the art and industry of Odia cinema. Films such as Danda Balunga, Bhakta Salabega, Phula Chandan, Nijhum Ratira Sathi, Jhiati Sita Pari, Rajanigandha, Chaka Bhaunri, Jaga Hathare Pagha, Mamata Mage Mula, Samay Bada Balaban, Sankha Sindura, Sahari Bagha, Ayi Ama Sansara, Jor Jar Mulak Tar, and many romantic as well as character roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s cemented his status as a definitive on-screen icon in Odisha’s film history.

He received multiple awards, including Odisha State Film Awards and the Jaydev Purashkar, the highest film award of the state.

Tributes and Legacy

Actor-turned-politician Sidhant Mohapatra shared his grief, stating, “Feeling like I lost a father figure. He was not only a great actor but a wonderful human being. It’s a huge personal loss.”

Noted theatre personality Manoj Patnaik said, “Uttam represents the golden era of Odia cinema, a time when a single actor could carry a film on his shoulders and captivate audiences with his genuine performance. The first superstar of Odia film industry, who has a unique screen presence that will remain for years to come.”

Uttam Mohanty is survived by his wife, Aparajita Mohanty, and son, Babushan.