Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 30 August paid tribute to legendary Bengali cinema icon Uttam Kumar during the 137th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', calling him a 'versatile actor' who remains 'deeply embedded in people's hearts.' The remarks came ahead of the actor's birth centenary on 3 September.

Modi's Tribute

'In just a few days, on September 3, we will celebrate the birth centenary of the legendary Uttam Kumar. Uttam Kumar was a versatile actor who became deeply embedded in people's hearts through his acting,' the Prime Minister said. Modi also recalled a personal moment — passing by Uttam Kumar's residence during a roadshow in Kolkata, where someone gifted him a photograph of the actor.

The Legacy of Mahanayak

Born Arun Kumar Chattopadhyay, Uttam Kumar is celebrated as the 'Mahanayak' — the great hero — of Bengali cinema. He starred in over 250 films across a career spanning more than three decades, making him the undisputed king of the Bengali box office. His journey from early setbacks to towering stardom remains one of Indian cinema's most enduring narratives of perseverance.

The Satyajit Ray Connection

Modi highlighted the celebrated bond between Uttam Kumar and filmmaker Satyajit Ray. 'Film lovers believe that Satyajit Ray wrote the entire script for the film 'Nayak – The Hero' with Mahanayak Uttam Kumar in mind,' the Prime Minister said. He quoted Ray as having remarked that Kumar 'possessed remarkable emotional depth alongside great dignity' and 'worked very hard to bring his characters to life.'

A Lesson in Dedication

'Uttam Kumar ji was known not only for his natural ease but also for his philanthropy. His life offers another great lesson: never give up. Although his early films did not fare well, he remained focused on his work. It was this dedication that enabled him to reach such great heights,' Modi added. This acknowledgement of Kumar's resilience resonated with a broader theme in the Mann Ki Baat episode, which often celebrates cultural icons and their values.

Significance of the Birth Centenary

The birth centenary of Uttam Kumar holds deep cultural significance for West Bengal and the broader Bengali-speaking world. As celebrations are planned across the state, the Prime Minister's tribute on a nationally broadcast programme brings fresh national attention to a figure who, while iconic in Bengal, has historically received limited recognition at the pan-India level. The centenary is being observed on 3 September 2025.