Odia actor Uttam Mohanty (66) dies after battling liver cirrhosis
What's the story
Uttam Mohanty, a legendary actor in the Odia film industry, died on Thursday night at a private hospital in Gurugram. The 66-year-old actor was suffering from liver cirrhosis, reported ANI, and was shifted from Bhubaneswar to NCR for treatment earlier this month. His legacy continues through his wife, Aparajita Mohanty, a revered actor, and his son, Babushan, a prominent star in Odia cinema.
Condolences
Odisha CM expressed grief over Mohanty's demise
The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, also expressed his sorrow over the actor's death. He said, "I am deeply saddened to know about the demise of Odisha's popular actor Uttam Mohanty. His departure has created a huge void in the Odia art field." "The impression he left in the Odia cinema will always keep him in the hearts of the audience."
State honors
Mohanty's last rites to be conducted with full state honors
CM Majhi has ordered that Mohanty's final rites be conducted with full state honors. His mortal remains were set to arrive in Bhubaneswar around 11:00am on Friday. The actor started his career in 1977 with the Odia film Abhimaan and went on to star in over 130 films. Some of his most memorable performances include roles in Nijhum Ratira Sathi (1979), Phula Chandana (1982), Jhiati Sita Pari (1983), and Danda Balunga (1984).
Diverse portfolio
Mohanty's contributions to Bengali cinema and television
Apart from his work in Odia cinema, Mohanty also starred in around 30 Bengali movies and a Hindi movie titled Naya Zaher. He also dabbled in television, starring in several TV serials, including Sara Akasha. His varied portfolio highlights his versatility as an actor and his immense contributions to regional cinema and television.
Awards
Mohanty's accolades and recognition in the film industry
Mohanty's acting prowess also earned him several awards during his career. He was awarded the prestigious Jayadeb Puraskar in 1999 and was conferred the Odisha Living Legend Award in 2012. He also received the Best Actor award at the Odisha State Film Awards multiple times. May he rest in peace.