Uttam Mohanty, Veteran Odia Actor in the Odia film industry, died on Thursday night at the age of 66 while being treated at a private hospital in Delhi. Mohanty, known for his unparalleled contributions to Odia film, died, leaving a loss in the hearts of admirers and the Odisha art community.

The actor, who had been suffering from significant liver problems, was evacuated to Delhi from Bhubaneswar on February 8 when his health worsened. Despite intense medical care, he succumbed to his health concerns, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. According to his medical staff, he was admitted to the hospital in critical condition four days ago and was on ventilator support.

He married Aparajita Mohanty, another well-known name in Odia cinema, and their son, Babushaan, has carried on the family history as a significant figure in the business.

Mohanty’s career spanned four decades, beginning in 1977 with the film Abhimaan. He went on to appear in more than 135 films, including classics like Nijhum Ratira Sathi (1979), Phula Chandana (1982), Jhiati Sita Pari (1983), and Danda Balunga (1984). His diverse performance earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Jayadeb Puraskar in 1999 and the Odisha Living Legend Award in 2012. He also dabbled in Bengali cinema and TV serials, leaving a lasting impression on regional entertainment.

The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed his deep sadness following Mohanty’s death, stating on Twitter: “I am deeply saddened to learn about the demise of Odisha’s famous and popular actor, Sikkli Mohanty.” His departure has left an enormous vacuum in the Odia art scene. His legacy in the Odia art field will live on in the audience’s hearts. I pray for eternal peace for his soul and extend my heartfelt condolences to the grieving family.”

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed his sympathies in a tweet, writing, “I am saddened and shocked to hear the news of the demise of Odisha’s prominent actor and the evergreen hero of the Odia film world, Bikli Mohanty.” He was more than just an artist; he felt like a member of my family. His long-term contribution to the Odia film industry was unrivaled. His most notable accomplishments were the movie Ramayana, Phulachandan, Sita Pari Nanditi, and others. His immaculate and vibrant performance made him renowned with the Odia audience. His death has left a vacuum in Odisha’s artistic community. Odisha lost a yoga janma. He will rule over the hearts of the Odia people for a long time. Wishing the eternal soul peace and expressing condolences to the bereaved family.”

Uttam Mohanty’s death signals the end of an era in Odia cinema, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his followers and in the film business. With his demise, the Ollywood Industry has lost one of its most revered icons, and the people of Odisha will always remember his achievements.