Ollywood Icon Uttam Mohanty Passes Away at 66, State Honours Announced

Quick Summary

• Veteran Odia actor Uttam Mohanty, considered Ollywood’s frist superstar, passed away at 66 on Thursday night while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Gurugram, Haryana.
• He suffered from liver-related complications and was airlifted to Medanta Hospital on February 8.
• Uttam mohanty acted in over 135 Odia films, 30 Bengali films, and one Hindi film titled Naya Zaher.
• Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed grief, calling him a “guiding star” of the Odia film industry and an icon whose contribution elevated the stature of Odia cinema.
• CM Majhi directed that Mohanty’s last rites be conducted with full state honors and assured his family support in bringing his body to Bhubaneswar.
• Born in Baripada (Mayurbhanj district), he dominated the Odia film industry throughout the 80s and 90s for nearly two decades. He was married to veteran actress Aparajita Mohanty.

Indian Opinion Analysis
Uttam mohanty’s passing marks the end of an era for Odisha’s cultural identity as represented through cinema. His extensive filmography across languages highlighted his versatility while also showcasing Odisha’s talent on broader platforms like Bengali and hindi industries. By conducting state honors for his last rites, there is acknowledgment of the significant legacy he leaves behind-one that enriched both regional art forms and national audiences alike.

The Chief Minister’s prompt actions to facilitate dignified procedures reflect not only institutional respect but also community-level impact; such measures help celebrate cultural icons who resonate deeply with regional pride. Uttam Mohanty’s domination during key decades underscores how a single artist can symbolize generational aspirations within Indian regional cinema ecosystems.

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