Bhubaneswar: A pall of gloom descended on Odia film industry as veteran actress Anita Das breathed her last Friday at her Mission Road residence in Cuttack. She died after cardiac arrest.
The 61-year-old versatile actor had carved a niche for herself in the film industry by playing role of the mother of main characters in over a hundred films.
Anita had started her career with feature film Jajabara (1975) directed by Akshaya Mohanty, Hemanta Das and Bijay Mishra. In her glittering career spanning three decades, Anita had won the hearts of many Odia and Bengali film lovers with her acting calibre. Her role as Maa (mother) was exceptional. She had acted in popular Odia films like Pua Mora Kala Thakura, Anti Chhuri Tanti Kate, Suna Chadhhei, and Laxman Rekha.
Known for her meaty roles in films like Krishna Sudama (1976), Ramayan (1980), Swapna Sagara(1983), Aama Bhitare Kichhi Achhi (2010), Shapath (2012) and Abhay (2017), Anita had also acted in television serials and music videos.
Anita had bagged several awards including Banichitra Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to Odia film industry.
Film fraternity, fans, artistes and several dignitaries expressed their condolences with the bereaved family of Anita Das after the news of her demise spread.
Senior actor Uttam Mohanty said, “Anita’s elder brother Annada Das and my late elder brother Arun Mohanty were friends. I had a great opportunity to work with her in Tapsya for which she received Best Actress Award. I worked with her in many movies. She was good friend of mine too. I am still in shock over her sudden demise. It is a great loss to Odia movie industry”.
Actor and MP Siddhanth Mohapatra said Anita was like a mother to him in real life.
Award-winning director Sabyasachi Mohapatra said, “Anita was a great artiste. She did not take rest until she finished her scene even in summer. I got a chance to work with her in Rama Balarama. Her role as Maa is incomparable.”
Saddened by Anita’s end, actor Bhupathi Tripathy said Anita always encouraged him to play his role to perfection in the film. “Anita Das was very caring and known for her sweet and sophisticated behaviour.”
Veteran actor Bijay Mohanty said Anita was one of the most versatile actresses which Odia film industry has lost for ever.