Honoring the Legacy of Odia Cinema
Since its inception in 1968, the Odisha State Film Awards have celebrated the best of Odia cinema, recognizing artistic brilliance and technical expertise. Instituted by the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department, the awards aim to honor exceptional contributions to the state’s rich cinematic tradition. The annual event, decided by an independent jury comprising film experts, academics, journalists, and public servants, has been a prestigious platform to showcase creativity and storytelling. This year’s ceremony, covering the years 2020 to 2022, was a tribute to the resilience and talent of the Odia film industry during challenging times.
Top Honours Across Three Years
In a unique move, the 2023 awards ceremony recognized films and performances spanning three years, underscoring the impact of Odia cinema over time.
Best Films:
Sahid Raghu Sardar was awarded Best Film for 2020.
Pratikshya and Daalcheeni jointly claimed the title for 2021.
DAMaN was recognized as the Best Film for 2022, reflecting its unique storytelling and impactful narrative.
Acting Awards:
For 2020, Debasish Patra and Kavya Kiran Shukla were named Best Actor and Best Actress for their performances in Sahid Raghu Sardar.
In 2021, Deepanwita Das Mohapatra (Pratikshya) and Suryamayee Mohapatra (Daalcheeni) claimed the acting honors.
For 2022, Babusan Mohanty (DAMaN) and Lopamudra Mishra (Boura Hata Baksha) received accolades for their outstanding performances.
Lifetime Contributions Acknowledged
The Mohan Sundar Dev Goswami Award, dedicated to lifetime achievements, recognized the enduring contributions of three industry stalwarts:
Ananta Mohapatra (2020): Renowned writer and theatre director.
Srinivas Mohapatra (2021): Noted cinematographer.
Jayiram Samal (2022): Beloved comedian affectionately known as Odisha’s “comedy king.”
Jayiram Samal expressed his gratitude, stating, “I laughed today after a long lapse of time and feel very happy for the award.” His work continues to resonate with audiences, bridging humor and humanity.
Star-Studded Ceremony
The awards ceremony, held in Bhubaneswar, was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Governor Raghubar Das, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. The event highlighted not only the achievements of the Odia film industry but also the government’s commitment to nurturing regional cinema.
Babusan Mohanty, who was honored for his role in DAMaN, reflected on the film’s impact: “The story and filmmaking were unique. The film has taught many of us, and I am grateful to be part of it.”
A Reflection of Cinematic Evolution
The Odisha State Film Awards showcased the dynamic evolution of Odia cinema, from historical epics like Sahid Raghu Sardar to contemporary narratives in DAMaN. The selection of films emphasized diverse genres and themes, exploring stories of resilience, cultural identity, and human connection.
A Tribute to Excellence
The Odisha State Film Awards stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of Odia cinema. This year’s awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the industry’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of challenges. By recognizing artistic and technical excellence, the awards continue to inspire filmmakers and actors to push boundaries and tell stories that resonate deeply.
As the curtains closed on this year’s ceremony, the event reaffirmed the vital role of cinema in preserving and promoting Odisha’s cultural heritage. The future of Odia cinema looks bright, driven by a commitment to innovation, storytelling, and artistry.
(With inputs from agencies)
