Bhubaneswar: Veteran Odia film actor Uttam Mohanty is no more. He passed away while undergoing treatment at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, Delhi. He was suffering from liver cirrhosis. At the time of his demise, he was 67 years old. His passing has cast a shadow of grief over the Odia film industry.
Uttam Mohanty acted not only in Odia films but also in Bengali and Hindi cinema. He made his acting debut in 1977 with the film Abhiman, directed by Sadhu Meher. Over his career, he appeared in more than 130 films. With his impeccable and artistic acting, he carved out a distinct place for himself in Ollywood and dominated Odia cinema in the 1980s.
Some of his superhit films include Udandi Sita, Danda Balunga, Jordaar Mulak Taar, Dekha Khabar Rakha Najara, Lakshman Rekha, Sei Jhiati, and Paradesi Chadhei. He also acted in 30 Bengali films and played the lead role in the Hindi movie Naya Jahar.
For his outstanding acting, he was honored with several awards, including the State Film Award and the prestigious Jayadev Award. His role in Danda Balunga made him a household name. He married Ollywood actress Aparajita in 1987. From 1982 to 1984, he received the Best Actor award from the state government for three consecutive years.
