Veteran Odia Actor Uttam Mohanty Passes Away at 67

Bhubaneswar, Feb 28 – Renowned Odia film actor Uttam Mohanty, who reigned over the Odia film industry for decades, passed away late Thursday night while undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis at a private hospital in Gurugram. He was 67.

Mohanty was a household name in Odisha, with an illustrious career spanning over 135 Odia films. His contributions extended beyond Odia cinema, as he also appeared in nearly 30 Bengali films and a few Hindi television serials.

A Journey from Academics to Stardom

Born in Baripada, Odisha, Uttam Mohanty pursued a Bachelor of Science degree before developing a passion for acting during his college days. Initially moving to Ludhiana to study chartered accountancy, he later shifted to Kolkata, staying with his elder brother, the late Arun Kumar Mohanty. Eventually, he found his calling in the film industry, making his debut in Sadhu Meher’s directorial venture Abhiman.

A Trailblazing Career

Following Abhiman, Mohanty gained widespread recognition with films such as Pati Patni, Nijhum Ratira Sathi, Chinha Achhinha, Ramayana, Tapasya, and Ram Balram. His on-screen chemistry with leading actresses like Rita Chand, Sujata Ananda, Tandra Roy, Mahasweta Ray, Deepa Sahu, Subhra Pati, Aparajita, and others made him a beloved figure in Odia cinema.

Often hailed as a “one-man industry,” Mohanty captivated audiences for over three decades, seamlessly transitioning between romantic, rural, and character roles. His performances in Danda Balunga, Bhakta Salabega, and Abhiman are still cherished by fans today.

In addition to films, Mohanty made significant contributions to television, appearing in Hindi serials such as Palash and the Bengali show Bideshini Bohu. He also lent his voice to music albums and devotional songs.

A Legacy That Lives On

Uttam Mohanty shared the screen in over 50 films with his wife, actress Aparajita Mohanty, whom he married in 1987. Their son, Babushan Mohanty, has followed in his father’s footsteps, establishing himself as a leading actor in Odia cinema with over 50 films to his credit.

Mohanty’s remarkable contributions to Odia cinema earned him numerous awards, including multiple Odia Filmfare accolades. Several organizations recognized him as a living legend of Ollywood, celebrating his immense impact on the industry.

Tributes Pour In

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his deep condolences, describing Mohanty as a “shining star” and the “undisputed hero” of Odia cinema. “His demise is an irreparable loss to the Odia art world,” Majhi stated, announcing that Mohanty’s last rites would be conducted with full state honors.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also mourned the legendary actor’s passing, referring to him as a “yuga janma” (a once-in-a-generation talent). “I am deeply saddened by the loss of Uttam Mohanty, the eternal hero of Odia cinema. He was not just an artist but a member of my extended family. His vibrant acting made him a beloved figure across Odisha,” Pradhan remarked.

Uttam Mohanty’s passing leaves a void in the Odia film industry, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and cinephiles alike.