kolkata

IIE DIGITAL: Kalyani University has paid tribute to Bengal’s legendary screen icon Uttam Kumar with the release of the first volume of Sobar Upore Uttam, an academic publication exploring the actor’s life, legacy and lasting influence on Bengali culture. The book was launched ahead of Uttam Kumar’s death anniversary as part of a special discussion programme organised by the Journalism Certificate Course of the university’s Bengali Department.

Inaugurating the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof Kallol Pal described Uttam Kumar as far more than a celebrated actor, calling him an emotion that remains deeply rooted in the identity and collective memory of Bengalis. He said that even decades after the actor’s death, no other star in Bengali cinema has been able to match Uttam Kumar’s unparalleled popularity and cultural impact.

Prof Pal also acknowledged the efforts behind the publication, which was conceptualised during Uttam Kumar’s birth centenary celebrations. He said the book represents an important academic effort to preserve the memories, stories and cultural significance associated with one of Bengal’s greatest cinematic icons.

Uttam Kumar’s daughter-in-law, Mahua Chattopadhyay, attended the programme as the chief guest. Speaking about the actor’s life and values, she recalled that Uttam Kumar believed discipline, devotion and dedication were essential qualities for anyone aspiring to become a true ‘Mahanayak’. She also shared that during difficult moments, remembering him continues to give the family a sense of comfort and closeness.

Recalling the immense emotional response to Uttam Kumar’s death, Mahua narrated a poignant memory from his funeral procession. She said a group of young admirers had stopped the vehicle carrying his mortal remains to the Keoratala crematorium. The youngsters reportedly lay down in front of the vehicle and looked towards the sky, saying, “Guru, return as Sannyasi Raja.”

The first volume of Sobar Upore Uttam brings together 50 new articles, along with rare photographs, posters and a personal letter written by Uttam Kumar to his wife, Gauri Devi. The book also features contributions from academics, journalists and admirers from 10 countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, Germany, England, France and Australia, highlighting the actor’s enduring appeal across generations and geographical boundaries.

Veteran actress Sabitri Chattopadhyay, who wrote the foreword, welcomed the initiative and noted that although many books have already explored Uttam Kumar’s life and career, this is the first time a university has taken up such a dedicated academic project on the legendary actor.

Prof Sukhen Biswas, editor of the publication and director of the Journalism Certificate Course, said Uttam Kumar continues to represent the dreams, imagination, style, identity and emotional world of generations of Bengalis. He added that wherever Bengalis live across the globe, the actor’s name continues to evoke conversations, memories and celebrations.

Prof Biswas further highlighted Uttam Kumar’s contribution to Bengali cinema, saying that his performances helped bridge the gap between mainstream commercial films and parallel cinema.

The second volume of Sobar Upore Uttam, featuring another 50 articles, is scheduled to be released on September 3, Uttam Kumar’s birth anniversary, as part of the centenary celebrations. The programme was attended by around 300 students, researchers and teachers, along with several faculty members and academics from the university.