This morning, we all woke up with the sad news that veteran Odia actor Uttam Mohanty has passed away. The 66-year-old actor was undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis, and passed away on February 27, 2025. He started his career in 1977 with the film Abhimaan, and then went on to feature in more than 135 Odia films. He had also done Bengali movies and starred in only one Hindi film titled Naya Zaher.
The 1991 release Naya Zaher was India’s first Hindi feature film based on HIV/AIDS, and it also featured Navin Nischol, Satabdi Roy, Firoz Khan (Arjun from Mahabharat). Mohanty was called the hearthrob of Odia cinema in his younger days, and he regarded as a legend Ollywood cinema.
Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, took to X to mourn the veteran actor’s demise. He posted, “I am deeply saddened to learn about the demise of Odisha’s renowned and popular actor Uttam Mohanty. His passing has created a huge void in the world of Odia art. The imprint of his acting in the Odia art world will keep him forever immortal in the hearts of the audience. While praying for the eternal peace of his immortal soul, I express my heartfelt condolences to his grief-stricken family.”
Well, even the fans of the actor are mourning his demise. He fan posted, “A sweet part of our childhood and grown-up years is gone too soon ….. #UttamMohanty Omm Shanti …” Another fan shared, “Om Shanti #UttamMohanty His remarkable contribution to Odia cinema have left a forever lasting mark on the hearts of audiences across 3 generations. #Ollywood #Odisha.”
One more fan wrote, “The passing of Odia cinema’s superstar Uttam Mohanty has left our hearts empty today. His acting and style will remain etched in our minds forever. From ‘Abhimaan’ to ‘Danda Balunga,’ he showcased his talent in more than 135 films. The pride of Odisha, the king of Ollywood has left us today, but his light continues to shine. #UttamMohanty.”
Apart from movies, Uttam Mohanty also featured in multiple Odia TV shows. We are sure that his fans are going to miss him a lot.
Free Press Journal prays that his soul rests in peace.
