The Odia Film Industry's legendary actor Uttam Mohanty, also remembered as Ollywood's first superstar, breathed his last on Thursday evening at Medanta Hospital in Delhi.

The actor battling for life with critical liver cirrhosis for a prolonged period, passed away at the age of 66 leaving behind a lasting legacy. His untimely demise has sent shockwaves across the state and cine lovers are mourning his death.

The actor’s departure has left a big void in the world of Odia cinema.

Remembering the phenomenon, a heartthrob and a trailblazer, who captivated the audience with his charm, unique style and talent, here we shed light on how 'Kunia Bhai' gave a new dimension to Odia cine industry with his ‘Jeetendra’ element.

Also Read: From Danda Balunga to Suna Chadhei: Remembering Uttam Mohanty through his unforgettable films

Uttam Mohanty's Early Life

Uttam Mohanty, affectionately called 'Kunia Bhai' (nickname), was born on December 23, 1958, in Odisha's Baripada. After his schooling at MKC High School, he joined Maharaja Purnachandra College, Baripada, for his intermediate. While pursuing his BSc, he developed an interest in acting and started taking part in college dramas as the lead. He was equally passionate towards sports (badminton and table tennis). After his graduation, he went to Ludhiana for chartered accountancy. Thereafter, he moved to Kolkata and got enrolled in a chartered accountancy course. It was then that he took a move to try his luck in Odia cinema.

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Ollywood Debut

Uttam Mohanty established himself as a versatile actor. Throughout his illustrious career spanning over four decades, he effortlessly essayed different roles in various genres. Be it romantic, action, comedic, drama or socially relevant films, his filmography is a testament to his versatility.

While continuing his chartered accountancy in 1977, he learned that renowned filmmaker Sadhu Meher was making a film 'Abhimaan' in Mayurbhanj's Baripada. He decided to try his luck in films. Though there were many contenders, Meher had a special interest in Mohanty's looks and capability. He bagged his first film and was paired with another debutant Rita Chand.

Must Read: Ollywood actor Uttam Mohanty no more; Odisha mourns the veteran actor's death

First Day, First Shot...

On the first day of shooting, a decked-up Uttam Mohanty arrived on the set with the best possible suit available to impress the director. However, Meher asked him to get decked up as a poor man. He had to adorn old and dirty clothes and came back sans makeup. The movie became a box office hit paving the way for the actor.

Tasting success with his first film, Mohanty decided to take up acting as his profession. With his acting prowess and charm, he slowly solidified his position in the industry and became a household name.

Uttam's Versatility TEETH

Breaking the stereotypes, Uttam Mohanty established himself as a romantic hero with a streak of successful movies. Interestingly, he also portrayed Lord Rama in 1980's Ramayana. Fans still remember his divine aura as Lord Rama. Moreover, 1984's Danda Balunga still remains one of the cherished movies of Uttam. Throughout his illustrious career, he worked in over 130 Odia movies. Some of the most memorable movies of the actor includes Abhimaan, Kabi Samrat Upendra Bhanja (1978), 1978), Sankha Mahuri (1978), Danda Balunga (1984), Chinha Achinha (1979), Nijhum Ratira Sathi (1979), Akshay Trutiya (1981), Debajani (1981), Samay Bada Balaban (1985), Hasa Luha Bhara Duniya (1989), et al.

Danda Balunga Poster

He was adored for his naturalism and distinct urbane mannerisms. He went on to work with the top actresses of the era and was hailed as a one-man industry. After a streak of blockbusters in Ollywood, Uttam Mohanty debuted in Bollywood with a socially relevant film 'Naya Zaher' in 1991. 

Uttam Mohanty's First, India's First!

Naya Zaher is India's first feature movie based on HIV/AIDS. Helmed by Jyoti Sarup, the movie also starred Mahabharat fame Arjun (Feroz Khan), Shatabdi Roy and Naveen Nischol, in key roles.

Uttam Mohanty in Naya Zaher

Craze in the Bengali Film Industry

Uttam Mohanty's craze crossed the state boundaries and his fandom sprawled across West Bengal. Reportedly, he has worked in around 30 Bengali movies. Apart from movies, he also featured in Odia, Hindi and Bengali TV serials.

Uttam's Dominance and 'X' Factor

Uttam Mohanty's dominance in the industry continued for over three decades. However, what separated him from others was his 'X' factor. It was Uttam Mohanty who introduced dance in Odia films. Fans also considered him Odia cinema's 'Jeetendra' and were in awe of his dance steps. Before Uttam, there were songs in Odia films but those lacked the sway.

Uttam Mohanty with Rajesh Khanna, Bijay Mohanty, Hara Pattnaik

It was Uttam Mohanty who gave a new dimension to the Odia film industry. His legacy will remain forever and keep inspiring aspiring actors for ages.

The Odia film industry has lost its true gem. He has defined an era with magical sway, which is nigh impossible to reproduce on the silver screen ever.

May the Almighty bless his soul! RIP Uttam!