Kolkata, Aug 30 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for paying tribute to legendary Bengali film actor Uttam Kumar in his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, and said it was a matter of pride for the entire state.
In a post on X, Adhikari said he tuned in to the broadcast and found that PM Modi paid a glowing tribute to Uttam Kumar ahead of the legendary actor’s birth centenary on September 3.
“It was deeply heartening and a matter of immense pride for all of West Bengal,” he said.
The chief minister said PM Modi highlighted the actor’s “unmatched cinematic genius, charisma and indelible artistic legacy”, adding that Uttam Kumar’s performances continue to define the cultural soul of Bengali cinema and inspire generations of storytellers and film lovers.
“On behalf of the people of West Bengal, I express our sincere gratitude to PM Narendra Modi for celebrating the immortal legacy of our beloved Mahanayak on the national platform,” Adhikari added.
In his radio address, the prime minister said Uttam Kumar was a versatile actor who became deeply embedded in people’s hearts through his acting.
“Film lovers believe that Satyajit Ray wrote the entire script for the film ‘Nayak’ (The Hero) with Mahanayak Uttam Kumar in mind. Satyajit Ray had remarked that he (Uttam Kumar) possessed remarkable emotional depth alongside great dignity. He worked very hard to bring his characters to life. Uttam Kumar ji was known not only for his natural ease but also for his philanthropy.
“His life offers another great lesson: never give up. Although his early films did not fare well, he remained focused on his work. It was this dedication that enabled him to reach such great heights. I recall passing by Uttam Kumar ji’s house while doing a roadshow in Kolkata. Someone there even gifted me a photograph of him. I once again pay tribute to the legendary Uttam Kumar ji; he will forever reign in our hearts,” he said.
“Mahanayak Uttam Kumar cheerodin maanusher hridaye raj korben (He will rule the hearts of people forever),” PM Modi said in Bengali. PTI BSM NSD
This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.