Hara Patnaik

Hara Patnaik was an Indian actor, director and screenplay writer known for his works in Odia cinema. He has acted over 60 Odia-language movies and directed about 19 others. Pattanaik was instrumental in introducing other actors including Anubhav Mohanty, Sabyasachi Mishra and Babushaan. He was also a singer and lent his voice to some of his movies. He started his career as a theatre actor in the 1980s and made his debut in the movie Jivan Sangram in 1984. He became famous for his negative roles and his catchphrase dialogues. Some of his popular movies are Daiba Daudi, Suhaga Sindura, Ganga Jamuna, Paradesi Babu, I Love You, Thank You Bhagban and Omm Sai Ram. He was also known for his unique get-ups and costumes. He received several state-level awards and accolades from the media and the public. He was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2008 and underwent treatment at Christian Medical College, Vellore. He died on 13 January 2015 at Sparsh Hospital in Bhubaneswar. He was 56 years old. He is survived by his wife Jharana and two daughters Ananya and Arjya. He was cremated with state honors at Satya Nagar crematorium. He is remembered as one of the most versatile and talented artists of Odia cinema.