- Iconic figure of Odia and Hindi cinema, Sadhu Meher, breathed his last at his Mumbai residence on Friday at the age of 84.
- Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep condolences, highlighting Meher’s unparalleled contribution to both Hindi and Odia films.
- The National Film Award for Best Actor was bestowed upon him for his stellar performance in ‘Ankur ‘
- In 2017, he was honored with the Padma Shri for his lifetime contribution to the entertainment industry.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep condolences, highlighting Meher’s unparalleled contribution to both Hindi and Odia films. The first Odia actor to receive the National Film Award, Sadhu Meher’s departure is mourned as an irreparable loss to the world of art.
Hailing from Guvellipadar village near Palsagura in Boud district, Meher gained fame for his roles in classics such as ‘Ankur: The Seedling’ (1974), ‘Abhilasha’ (1983), and ‘Byomkesh Bakshi’ (1993). Starting his career with Hindi films like ‘Bhuvan Shome,’ he later shifted his focus to Odia cinema, becoming a prominent figure in parallel cinema during the mid-1980s.
Meher’s directorial ventures, including ‘Abhimaan,’ ‘Aparichita,’ ‘Desire,’ ‘Abhilasha,’ ‘Babula,’ and ‘Gopa Re Badhhuchhi Kala Kanhei,’ showcased his multifaceted talent. The National Film Award for Best Actor was bestowed upon him for his stellar performance in ‘Ankur.’ In 2017, he was honored with the Padma Shri for his lifetime contribution to the entertainment industry and received the Jaydev Samman from the Odisha government in 2011.
The cinematic giant’s influence transcended generations, with notable appearances in Bollywood hits like ‘Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain’ alongside Anil Kapoor and Kajol. His extensive filmography, encompassing Hindi gems such as “27 Down,” “Nishaant,” “Manthan,” and Odia masterpieces like “Jai Jagannath,” cements his legacy as a beloved character artist.
As Odisha and the nation grieve the loss of Sadhu Meher, his timeless legacy is set to inspire generations of actors, directors, and film enthusiasts.
(With inputs from agencies)
