Bhubaneswar: Veteran Odia Cine Star, Uttam Mohanty passed away while undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis at a private hospital in Gurugram late Thursday night. He was 67.
Shri Mohanty had dominated the Odia film industry for decades as a household name in the State. He acted in about 135 Odia films and 30 Bengali films.
Born in Baripada in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, Shri Mohanty earned a Bachelor of Science degree. During his college days, he developed a strong inclination toward acting. After completing his graduation, he moved to Ludhiana to pursue Chartered Accountancy. Later, he stayed with his elder brother, the late Arun Mohanty, in Kolkata for some time before eventually entering the film industry.
His film career began with Sadhu Meher’s directorial venture Abhiman, after which he quickly established himself in Ollywood. He then starred in Pati Patni, followed by Nijhum Ratira Sathi, Chinha Achhinha, Ramayana, Tapasya, Ram Balram, and so on.
Often hailed as a “One-Man Industry,” Uttam Mohanty dominated Odia cinema for three decades, excelling in various roles—romantic lead, village lad, and character roles. His films Abhiman, Danda Balunga, and Bhakta Salabega are still remembered today for his remarkable performances.
Shri Mohanty acted in over 50 films alongside Aparajita Mohanty, whom he married in 1987. His son, Babushan Mohanty, is also a popular Odia actor with over 50 Odia films to his credit.
Starting from President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to all Ministers, tall political leaders and the entire Odia film industry mourned the demise of the veteran actor.
“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of eminent film actor Shri Uttam Mohanty. Shri Mohanty won the hearts of countless viewers by playing the lead role in many Odia films. His contribution to the development of Odia film will always be remembered. As a sweet-spoken and humble gentleman, he was the idol of all. His demise has caused an irreparable loss to the Odia film world. My condolences to his family and fans,” President Shrimati Murmu said in a post on X in Odia.
“Upon learning of the passing away of veteran Ollywood actor Uttam Mohanty, Honorable Governor Shri @DrHariBabuK expressed grief and prayed for the eternal peace of his soul and extended his condolences to the bereaved family members,” Kambhampati said in a post on X.
The Chief Minister expressed deep condolences on the demise of the distinguished actor. In his condolence message, Majhi described Mohanty as a “shining star” and the “undisputed hero” of Odia cinema for over two decades.
He stated that Shri Mohanty was an icon who elevated Odia cinema to new heights by acting in Odia, Bengali, and even Hindi films. “His demise is an irreparable loss to the Odia art world,” Majhi said, extending his sympathies to the bereaved family.
The Chief Minister also announced that Shri Mohanty’s last rites will be performed with full state honors.
A large number of cine artists, cultural figures, fans and members of the general public gathered at his home here to pay their final respects to the beloved actor. His last rites will be performed here at Satyanagar crematorium later in the day.