The Odia film industry and thousands of fans bid a tearful farewell to the legendary actor Uttam Mohanty on Friday.
The beloved actor, who passed away late on Thursday evening while undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis at Medanta Hospital in New Delhi, was cremated with national dignity at the Satyanagar crematorium in Bhubaneswar.
The actor’s final rites were performed with a guard of honour, and his son, popular actor Babushan, lit the pyre. Many dignitaries, politicians, actors, and actresses associated with Ollywood, including Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, were present to pay their last respects to the iconic artist. The Chief Minister expressed his condolences to the family and praised Uttam Mohanty for his immense contributions to the film industry.
The body of Uttam Mohanty arrived at the Bhubaneswar airport at 10:30 am and was taken to his residence in Jagannath Vihar. People from all walks of life gathered there to honor their beloved actor. Following the last rites at his residence, a large procession accompanied the actor’s final journey to the Satyanagar crematorium, where thousands of mourners gave a tearful farewell.
Born in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Uttam Mohanty completed his schooling at Maharaja Krushnachandra High School and his college education at Maharaja Purnachandra College. He initially pursued Chartered Accountancy in Ludhiana but later transitioned to acting, becoming a prominent figure in the Odia film industry.
With a career spanning several decades, Uttam Mohanty starred in over 135 Odia films, numerous Bengali films, and the Hindi film Naya Jahar.’ His exceptional talent earned him several awards, including the Jayadeva Award in 1999, the Odisha State Film Award, and the Odisha Living Legend Award.
Uttam Mohanty’s illustrious career began with the film ‘Abhiman’ in 1977 and included notable works such as ‘Dandabalunga,’ ‘Chakabhanuri,’ ‘Jaga Hatare Pagha,’ ‘Mamata Mage Mula,’ and many more. He also worked in popular television serials like Katha Kahuthile Saribani, Panata Kani, and Sara Akash.’
The passing of Uttam Mohanty has left a void in the world of Odia cinema. He is survived by his wife, popular actress Aparajita Mohanty, and their son, Babushan. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and filmmakers.
