Uttam Kumar (born as Arun Kumar Chatterjee; 3 September 1926 – 24 July 1980) was an Indian film actor, director, producer, singer, and music composer, who predominantly worked in Indian Cinema. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in the history of Indian cinema. Kumar began his acting career in the theater and made his film debut in 1949 with Drishtidan. He went on to become one of the most popular and influential actors in Bengali cinema, with a career spanning over three decades.
Kumar was born in Kolkata, West Bengal, India to Mahamaya and Chuni Lal Chatterjee. His father was a lawyer and his mother was a housewife. He was the eldest of three children. He was a student of the Scottish Church College and later studied at the University of Calcutta.
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Details Biography of Uttam Kumar
Kumar made his film debut in 1949 with the film Drishtidan, directed by Debaki Bose. He then appeared in several films such as Basanta Bilap, Chinnamul, and Agni Pariksha. In the 1950s, he established himself as one of the leading actors in Bengali cinema with films such as Saptapadi, Apur Sansar, and Chiriyakhana. He also worked as a director and producer in the film industry.
Kumar’s portrayal of a common man in the films like “Malyadaan” and “Nabarupa” made him very popular among the masses and earned him the title of “Mahanayak” (The great hero). In addition to acting, Kumar was also a successful singer and music composer. He sang for several of his films and even released albums of his songs.
Kumar’s notable works include the films “Saptapadi”, “Apur Sansar”, “Chiriyakhana”, “Malyadaan”, “Nabarupa” and many more. He was honored with several awards and accolades during his career, including the National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in the film “Basanta Bilap” in 1973 and the Bengal Film Journalists’ Association – Most Outstanding Work of the Year Award for his performance in the film “Malyadaan” in 1957.
Uttam Kumar died on 24 July 1980, at the age of 54, due to a heart attack. He was buried with full state honors at the Keoratola crematorium in Kolkata. His death was a great loss to the Indian film industry and his fans all over the world. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest actors in the history of Indian cinema.
In addition to his successful acting career, Uttam Kumar was also a skilled director and producer. He directed several films throughout his career, including “Saptapadi” and “Agni Pariksha”. As a producer, he was involved in the production of films like “Malyadaan” and “Nabarupa”.
Kumar’s on-screen chemistry with actress Suchitra Sen was very popular among the audience and they were often referred to as the “golden pair” of Bengali cinema. They appeared together in several films, including “Saptapadi”, “Apur Sansar”, and “Chiriyakhana”.
Kumar was also a philanthropist and actively involved in various social causes. He was the president of the All Bengal Motion Picture Artistes’ Association and worked toward the welfare of actors and technicians in the Bengali film industry.
Uttam Kumar’s legacy and influence in Bengali cinema continue to be felt to this day. Many actors and directors have cited him as an inspiration, and his films continue to be watched and celebrated by audiences all over the world. His contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered as one of the greatest of all time.
Uttam Kumar’s death was a great loss to the Indian film industry. His passing away was mourned by people from all walks of life. His fans all over the world were deeply saddened by the news of his death. A state funeral was organized for him and his body was taken to Rabindra Sadan, where thousands of people paid their last respects. He was buried with full state honors at the Keoratola crematorium in Kolkata.
In honor of his legacy, several film festivals, retrospectives, and exhibitions dedicated to his work have been organized in India and abroad. Several books have been written on his life and career, including “Uttam Kumar: The Legend” and “Uttam Kumar: The Man and His Films”. A biographical film, “Drishtidan”, was released in 1988, which depicted the life and career of Uttam Kumar.
Uttam Kumar’s contribution to Indian cinema has been recognized with several awards and honors. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, one of the highest civilian awards in India, in 1970. He was also awarded the Bengal Film Journalists’ Association – Most Outstanding Work of the Year Award and the National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in the film “Basanta Bilap” in 1973.
In conclusion, Uttam Kumar was one of the greatest actors in the history of Indian cinema. His contribution to the film industry will always be remembered and celebrated. He continues to be an inspiration for many actors and directors, and his films will always be cherished by audiences all over the world.
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