31st death anniversary of Uttam Kumar
Three decades after his death, a film award will be instituted in the name of Mahanayak Uttam Kumar from next year.
This was announced by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at a programme to observe Uttam Kumar’s 31st death anniversary at Uttam Mancha in Kolkata on Sunday evening.
Attacking the previous Left Front government, Mamata said Uttam Kumar was “denied” the honour he deserved during his lifetime. “The previous government didn’t even allow his dead body to be taken to Rabindra Sadan. They refused to give Uttam Kumar the respect he deserved. Now we shall make amends by paying a fitting tribute to him and make sure that his memory and films are kept alive. By next year, we shall launch the Uttam Kumar Film Award that will be held at this auditorium.
Uttam Kumar had worked in the film industry in an era when technology was poor and resources limited and yet, he delivered memorable performances that remain etched in the memory of every Bengali, said Mamata adding, “He towered above everyone and inspired us to live with our heads held high. His creations are immortal.”
Actors Supriya Debi and Madhabi Mukherjee, both of whom have shared screen space opposite the “Mahayanyak” (epic hero), and a host of Tollywood actors were present on the occasion.
The Chief Minister said Uttam Mancha would be upgraded to a first-rate auditorium. “This auditorium needs better facilities. We shall engage the best architect and make sure that Uttam Mancha is counted among the best in the state,” she said.
Mamata said Uttam Kumar had created the golden age of Bengal cinema and although there had been many developments since then, no one can forget his contribution.
A similar tribute was paid to Uttam Kumar, who has acted in 202 films between 1947 and 1980, at Kolkata’s landmark Star Theatre. A festival of films starring the legendary actor has started at Uttam Mancha and Star Theatre from Sunday.
-With The Daily Star input
