Bhubaneswar: Noted cinematographer Dilip Ray, known for his immense contributions to Odia and Bengali cinema, passed away at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar following a brief illness. He was 72.
Ray, who had been unwell for the past few days, was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. He breathed his last on Friday night, family sources said. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.
His demise coincided with the very day the Odisha State Film Awards for 2023-24 were being presented. He had served as a jury member for the awards.
Born on July 27, 1954, in Cuttack, Dilip Ray entered the Odia film industry after completing a cinematography course at the Film and Television Institute (FTI), Bengaluru. Over a career spanning several decades, he established himself as one of the most respected cinematographers in Ollywood.
A five-time winner of the Od
isha State Film Award for Best Cinematography, Ray was a stalwart in the regional film industry. He had worked on over 80 Odia feature films and 15 Bengali movies, along with projects in Chhattisgarhi cinema.
His notable Odia films include Tisandhya, Baje Bainsi Nache Ghungura, Chaka Bhaunri, Ei Ta Dunia, Mamata Ra Dora, Majhi Pahacha, Bidhira Bidhana, Maa Mote Shakti De, Suna Sansara, Ganga Jamuna, Chini, and Bhija Mati among others. He also lent his expertise to documentaries and television serials.
Recipient of many awards, he was honoured with multiple Odisha State Film Awards, the Filmfare Award, Doordarshan National Award, and several other film fraternity recognitions.
A host of distinguished persons, including Chief Minister Mohan Charan majhi, expressed deep grief over the demise of Ray. People from different walks of life including the film fraternity mourned his demise, with many describing his death as an irreparable loss to regional cinema.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of distinguished cinematographer Dillip Ray. His extraordinary artistic contributions to enriching the Odia film world will always remain memorable. His departure is an irreparable loss to our world of art and culture. I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members while praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul,” the Chief Minister said in a message.
Cine lovers said Ray played a key role in elevating Odia films to new heights. His last rites are scheduled to be held at Swargadwar in Puri.