On the 47th death anniversary of legendary Bengali actor Uttam Kumar, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari paid tribute to the iconic star at Keoratala Mahashmashan in Kolkata on Thursday. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister also unveiled a bust of the legendary actor in his memory.
Members of Uttam Kumar’s family attended the event, along with actress Rituparna Sengupta and other dignitaries.
CM Suvendu Adhikari remembers Uttam Kumar’s contribution
Paying homage to the legendary actor, Suvendu Adhikari said Uttam Kumar’s contribution to Bengali cinema would remain timeless.
He said the state government is working on several initiatives to ensure that the actor’s legacy reaches future generations in a more meaningful and organised manner.
Also Read | Bhoomi turns 27: Celebrating the timeless Bengali band that redefined urban folk
Grand celebrations planned for Uttam Kumar’s birth centenary
The Chief Minister announced that Uttam Kumar’s birth centenary will be celebrated across West Bengal on a large scale later this year.
Sharing details of the preparations, Adhikari said, “I hold the full charge of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, along with several other departments. On the occasion of Mahanayak’s birth centenary, I have taken a few decisions. We have decided to celebrate his birth centenary from September 3 to September 6. Preparations will begin shortly.”
He added that a preparatory meeting will be held at either Nandan or Rabindra Sadan, which he will personally chair. A preparation committee will also be formed for the celebrations.
The Chief Minister further clarified that all programmes related to the birth centenary will be organised only after obtaining the consent of Uttam Kumar’s family.
Film centre to be named after Uttam Kumar
Among the key announcements, Adhikari said a film centre dedicated to Uttam Kumar will be established.
According to the Chief Minister, the proposed institution will serve as a centre for preserving the history of Bengali cinema while promoting research and cultural activities related to the film industry.
Also Read | Manashi Ghosh turns a new page with Bengali playback debut in Dokhol
He also announced that Uttam Mancha will undergo renovation and modernisation.
Chief Minister visits Uttam Kumar’s residence
After attending the tribute ceremony and unveiling the bust at Keoratala Mahashmashan, Suvendu Adhikari visited Uttam Kumar’s residence in Bhawanipur.
He met members of the actor’s family and paid his respects to the legendary star’s memory.
FAQs:
When is Uttam Kumar’s birth centenary?
Uttam Kumar’s birth centenary will be celebrated from September 3 to September 6, with the West Bengal government planning a four-day statewide programme.
Why is Uttam Kumar called Mahanayak?
Uttam Kumar earned the title “Mahanayak” for his legendary contribution to Bengali cinema through decades of iconic performances.