Iconic Actor and Director Sadhu Meher passes away

Renowned actor and director Sadhu Meher, celebrated for his contributions to both Hindi and Odia cinema, passed away at the age of 84 in Mumbai on Friday. Hailing from Manamunda in Odisha’s Boudh district, Meher embarked on his cinematic journey in 1969, making a notable impact with Hindi films such as ‘Bhuvan Shome,’ ‘Ankur,’ and ‘Mrigaya’ before redirecting his focus to Odia cinema.

In 1974, Meher achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first individual from Odisha to secure a national award for best actor, earning recognition for his role in Shyam Benegal’s ‘Ankur.’ Beyond this, his noteworthy contributions to Hindi cinema include roles in films like ’27 Down’ (1974), ‘Manthan’ (1976), and ‘Inkaar’ (1977).

Transitioning to Odia cinema in the mid-1980s, Meher garnered acclaim for his role in the 1989 Sambalpuri-language film ‘Bhukha,’ directed by Sabyasachi Mohapatra. His directorial ventures in Odia cinema included films such as ‘Abhimaan,’ ‘Aparichita,’ ‘Abhilasha,’ and ‘Gopa Re Badhhuchi Kala Kanhei.’ Notably, Meher directed the first Odia children’s sci-fi movie, ‘Babula,’ in 1985.

In recognition of his lifetime achievements, the Odisha government honored Meher with the Jaydev Samman in 2011. Additionally, he received the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2017. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed profound sorrow over Meher’s demise, emphasizing his indelible impact on both Hindi and Odia cinema. Patnaik conveyed condolences to the grieving families, acknowledging Meher’s irreplaceable loss to the film industry.

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