Uttam Mohanty dies at 66, Odia film legend leaves a lasting legacy
Mohanty was a legendary Odia actor known for his natural charm and versatile performances, dominating Odia cinema in the 80s and 90s.
Veteran actor Uttam Mohanty, a popular face of Odia movies, passed away at a private hospital in New Delhi, sending shockwaves across the State, family sources said.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who mourned Mohanty’s death, announced that his last rites will be held with full state honours as a mark of tribute to the late actor’s contribution to the Odia film industry.
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Mohanty, a native of the Mayurbhanj district, was 66. A veteran in the Odia movie industry, he had a successful career acting in over 166 movies and reigned the industry for over two decades. He also played lead roles in 30 Bengali movies besides “Naya Zagar,” a Hindi film.
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Mohanty, who was suffering from liver cirrhosis, was airlifted to a Delhi-based private hospital last week after his health condition deteriorated. He passed away last night, said Babhshan Mohanty, the later actor’s son and also a popular actor who essays lead roles in Odia movies.
Mohanty, a multifaceted film personality, had carved out a niche in Odia movie circles. The film fraternity of the new generation of actors described him as an ‘institution’.
People from various backgrounds have expressed deep condolences over Mohanty’s demise.
“I am deeply upset over the demise of Odisha’s popular actor Uttam Mohanty. His death has created a huge void in the Odia cine world. His indelible mark on the Odia art world will forever remain etched in the hearts of his fans. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and I extend my sincerest condolences to his grieving family during this difficult time.” Odisha Chief Minister Majhi took to his X handle to express his condolence.
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