Uttam Kumar's aura remains irreplaceable, says Rituparna Sengupta on centenary year

As Bengali cinema prepares to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Uttam Kumar on September 3, actor Rituparna Sengupta has paid tribute to the legendary star, asserting that his legacy remains unmatched.

Sengupta, who serves as president of Shilpi Sansad, the organisation founded by Kumar, said the actor's relevance has not dimmed with time. "Uttam Kumar is someone who, after 100 years also, he's so relevant. And he's one of the biggest icons, the biggest superstar, the 'Mahanayak'. Nobody can replace his aura," she said.

She expressed gratitude to both the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister for their recognition of the actor's contribution. Sengupta also noted that a week-long series of events has been planned, including film screenings, book and poster launches, and a special programme by the postal department.

Born Arun Kumar Chattopadhyay on September 3, 1926, Uttam Kumar rose from early setbacks to become one of Indian cinema's most celebrated figures. His breakthrough came with 'Sharey Chuattor' (1953), which also marked the beginning of his iconic on-screen pairing with Suchitra Sen. Together, they starred in classics like 'Agni Pariksha', 'Harano Sur', and 'Saptapadi'.

In 1967, Kumar became the first recipient of the National Film Award for Best Actor, recognised for his work in 'Antony Firingee' and Satyajit Ray's 'Chiriyakhana'. His collaboration with Ray extended to 'Nayak - The Hero' (1966), a film widely believed to have been written with Kumar in mind. Ray had praised the actor's dignity and emotional depth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address, also remembered Kumar as a versatile performer who earned a lasting place in people's hearts. Kumar, who also directed films, composed music, and sang, passed away on July 24, 1980, but remains a towering figure in Bengali culture.