Veteran Odia actor Uttam Mohanty passes away at 66, leaving a lasting legacy in cinema

BHUBANESWAR: Veteran Odia actor Uttam Mohanty, widely remembered as the quintessential heartthrob of yesteryears in Odia cinema—a superstar whose charm, versatility, and natural on-screen presence redefined the industry for decades, passed away on Thursday. He was 66.
Mohanty was airlifted to Delhi on February 8, as his health condition became critical and he was undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis at a private hospital there. His death spread a pall of gloom among his fans and admirers in Odisha.
Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of veteran actor Uttam Mohanty and said, “Uttam Mohanty was like a guiding star in the Odia film industry. For over two decades, he remained an unrivalled hero in Odia cinema. He was an icon of the Odia art world. Through his acting in Odia, Bengali, and even in Hindi films, he elevated the Odia film industry to new heights. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Odia artistic community.”
The chief minister announced that Uttam Mohanty’s last rites will be performed with full state honour. Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Odisha’s veteran actor Uttam Mohanty. “The demise of veteran Odia actor and legendary figure of the Odia film industry, Uttam Mohanty, is an irreparable loss to the cultural world of Odisha. He was not just an actor but a member of every Odia household. With his remarkable performances, he earned a permanent place in the hearts of people. His passing has left a great void in Odisha’s cultural sphere.”
Making his debut in 1977 with the film Abhiman, Mohanty quickly established himself as a bankable lead in Ollywood. Over his long and prolific career, he acted in more than 135 Odia films, as well as 30 Bengali films, and even ventured into Hindi cinema with Naya Zaher.
“Feeling like I lost a father figure. He was not only a great actor but a wonderful human being. It’s a huge personal loss,” said actor-turned-politician Sidhant Mohapatra.
Born in Baripada in 1958, Mohanty’s early life in a modest family and his passion for drama during school laid the foundation for his cinematic journey. His commitment to his craft saw him transition from lead roles to impactful character parts as he matured, ensuring that his legacy would continue to influence both the art and industry of Odia cinema.
His performances in films such as Danda Balunga, Bhakta Salabega, Phula Chandan, Nijhum Ratira Sathi, Jhiati Sita Pari, Rajanigandha, Chaka Bhaunri, Jaga Hathare Pagha, Mamata Mage Mula, Samay Bada Balaban, Sankha Sindura, Sahari Bagha, Ayi Ama Sansara, Jor Jar Mulak Tar, and many romantic as well as character roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s cemented his status as a definitive on-screen icon in Odisha’s film history.
He received multiple awards like Odisha State Film Awards and the Jaydev Purashkar—the highest film award of the state.
“Uttam represents the golden era of Odia cinema, a time when a single actor could carry a film on his shoulders and captivate audiences with his genuine performance. The first superstar of Odia film industry, who has a unique screen presence that will remain for years to come,” said noted theatre personality Manoj Patnaik.
Mohanty is survived by his wife Aparajita Mohanty and son Babushan.