Renowned screenplay writer Ranjit Patnaik passed away at his CDA-based residence in Cuttack on Tuesday night. He was 65.
He was suffering from liver related ailment for a long time and undergoing treatment. Patnaik had carved a niche for himself in Odia television and cine industries by writing brilliant screenplays and dialogues.
Following his death, condolences poured in from many artistes of Ollywood industry. Artistes also paid last visit to Patnaik at his residence.
Born on March 20, 1957, Patnaik had completed his post graduation and M.Phil from Sambalpur University. Despite being a bank employee by profession, he had profound interest towards literature, theatre and music.
His never-ending passion for literature made him pen many tele soaps and theatrical books. Besides, Patnaik was a certified artiste of Doordarshan and Akashvani in Cuttack and Sambalpur.
Apart from plays, movies like Sundargarh Ra Salman Khan, Premare Premare, Mu Eka Tumara, Ashok Samrat, Paribeni Kehi Alaga Kari, Parshuram, Matric Fail, Raja Jhia Sathe Heigala Bhaba, Something Something, Samay Kheluchhi Chaka Bhaunri, and Rakata Chinhichhi Nijara Kie brought him name and fame in the industry as a screenplay writer.
He had written, produced and directed 12 documentaries. His directional plays such as Palataka, Dhrutarashtra Ra Akhi, Atha Kantha ra Amarabati, Bhirnna Eka Smasan are all-time hit among the theatre-goers.
Veteran actor Pradyumna Lenka said, “We are really shattered to know the demise of Ranjit Patnaik. Ollywood keeps losing its legends one after another. Ranjit Patnaik was a good human being. He used to admire everyone. May God give strength to his family to bear the loss. His soul may rest in peace.”
Lyricist Nirmal Nayak said, “Entire Ollywood is in a state of shock following the demise of Ranjit Da. He had many feathers in his cap like screenplay writer, dialogue writer, screenplay writer and lyricist. He had spent his school and college career in Sambalpur. I grew up watching his plays like Baba Ultile and Bula Kukura ra Atma Kahani. He is a rare personality. His family may get patience to cope up with the loss.”