Bangla cinema has produced many stars, but only one is widely known as the Mahanayak—Uttam Kumar.
Born on 3 September, 1926, in Kolkata, he became the defining hero of Bengali cinema through his natural acting, expressive eyes and unmatched screen presence.
After a difficult beginning and several box-office failures, his career changed with Basu Paribar in 1952.
The following year, Sare Chuattor, opposite Suchitra Sen, launched the legendary Uttam-Suchitra era.
Their films, including Agnipariksha, Harano Sur, Saptapadi and Chawa Pawa, established a romantic legacy that remains popular across generations.
But Uttam was far more than a romantic hero. He played dual roles in Jhinder Bandi, Byomkesh Bakshi in Chiriyakhana and the title character in Antony Firingee, for which he won the National Film Award for Best Actor.
His most acclaimed performance came in Satyajit Ray’s Nayak, where he portrayed a film star confronting his fears, compromises and guilt.
He also worked as a producer, director, music composer and singer.
Uttam’s personal life, particularly his relationship with actress Supriya Devi, was also widely discussed.
He died on 24 July, 1980, at the age of 53, but his popularity never faded.
To mark his birth centenary, the West Bengal government has organised four days of film screenings, exhibitions, discussions, rallies and cultural programmes from 3 to 6 September.
The celebrations aim to introduce his work to a new generation.
More than four decades after his death, audiences still return to his films. The Mahanayak may be gone, but his magic remains.
