The Odia film industry has lost one of its brightest stars. Uttam Mohanty, a beloved and renowned actor in Ollywood, passed away on February 27, 2025, after battling a prolonged illness. The 66-year-old actor was undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis at a private hospital in Delhi when he succumbed to the disease.
In This Article:
Uttam Mohanty’s Legacy in Ollywood
Born on December 23, 1958, in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha, Uttam Mohanty made an indelible mark on the Odia film industry. Over the span of his illustrious career, he appeared in more than 135 Odia films, along with 30 Bengali films and one Hindi film, “Naya Zaher”. His versatility as an actor and his unmatched screen presence made him a household name across Odisha and beyond.
Mohanty’s contribution to Ollywood earned him the title of “First Superstar of Odia Cinema”. His iconic performances in films like “Ishq Tu Hi Tu,” “Duti Babu,” and “Katha Deithili Maa” have left an everlasting imprint on the hearts of movie lovers.
Industry and Public Reactions to His Passing
The news of Uttam Mohanty’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the Odia film industry and beyond. Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed his condolences and highlighted the profound impact Mohanty had on the state’s cultural and cinematic landscape. Majhi described Mohanty as an inspiration for many aspiring actors and filmmakers, adding that the industry has lost a pillar of its success.
Director Sabyasachi Mohapatra, who collaborated with Mohanty on multiple projects, reflected on the actor’s contribution to Odia cinema, calling him more than just an actor. Mohapatra said that Uttam Mohanty was an institution in himself, setting a benchmark for future generations in both acting and professionalism.
The Actor’s Final Moments
After battling liver cirrhosis for several months, Uttam Mohanty was airlifted to Delhi for specialized treatment. Despite medical efforts, he passed away, leaving fans and the industry in deep sorrow. His last rites were conducted with full state honors, as a testament to the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career. The actor’s body was brought back to Bhubaneswar, where thousands of fans, colleagues, and well-wishers paid their last respects.
Tributes from Fans and Colleagues
Fans flooded social media with heartfelt tributes, expressing their grief over the loss of the Ollywood icon. Many took to Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, sharing their favorite moments from Mohanty’s films and recalling how he was a source of joy and inspiration. His passing has created a void in Ollywood, one that may never be filled.
In his final moments, Uttam Mohanty’s family, friends, and fans remembered him not only for his iconic roles on screen but also for his warm, kind-hearted nature off screen. He was known for his humility, generosity, and his dedication to his craft.
Uttam Mohanty’s Unforgettable Contribution
Uttam Mohanty’s career was marked by excellence, and his contribution to Odia cinema will be remembered for years to come. His role in elevating the Odia film industry and shaping it into what it is today cannot be overstated. As fans and fellow actors mourn his loss, they also celebrate the remarkable journey of a man who forever changed the landscape of Odia cinema.
His death leaves a void in the film industry, but his legacy will continue to live on in his films and the countless memories he created for generations of moviegoers.
By – Kartik
