Renowned Odia film actor Uttam Mohanty passed away on Thursday night at the age of 66 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Delhi. He had been battling severe liver ailments and was airlifted from Bhubaneswar to Delhi for advanced medical care on February 8.
Mohanty is survived by his wife, veteran actress Aparajita Mohanty, and their son, Odia film star Babushan Mohanty.
Tributes Pour In for Uttam Mohanty
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his sorrow over the actor’s passing. "I am deeply saddened by the demise of Odisha's popular actor Uttam Mohanty. His contribution to Odia cinema will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
As a mark of respect, the Chief Minister announced that Mohanty’s last rites would be conducted with full state honors.
A Glorious Career in Cinema
Uttam Mohanty made his acting debut in 1977 with the Odia film Abhimaan and went on to star in over 130 Odia movies. He is best remembered for his roles in classics like Nijhum Ratira Sathi (1979), Phula Chandana (1982), Jhiati Sita Pari (1983), and Danda Balunga (1984).
Apart from Odia films, he also acted in about 30 Bengali films and a Hindi movie, Naya Zaher. Additionally, he appeared in popular TV serials, including Sara Akasha.
Awards and Recognition
Mohanty's immense contribution to Odia cinema earned him numerous accolades. He received the prestigious Jayadev Puraskar in 1999 and the Odisha Living Legend Award in 2012. He was also honored multiple times at the Odisha State Film Awards.
The passing of Uttam Mohanty marks the end of an era in Odia cinema, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.