[Watch] Veteran Actor-Director Prashant Nanda Sees Growth Of Odia Film Industry With Lord Jagannath’s Blessings

Puri: After paying obeisance to the sibling deities in Puri Jagannath temple, veteran cine personality Prashant Nanda turned emotional and narrated how his first Odia film ‘Sesha Shrabana’ became a box office success with the blessings of the lords.

While emerging out of the 12^th century shrine in this seaside pilgrim town, the director, actor and politician recalled how Lord Jagannath had showered the divine blessings for the grand success of his first film, made in 1976.

Stating that he was quite apprehensive and anxious about prople’s response after having made Sesha Shrabana, Nanda told reporters that the ciinema was made under the banner of Shree Jagannath Films.

“I did not know whether the film would be liked by people. Finally I surre

ndered the responsibility of ensuring the success of the movie to Lord jagannath,” he said.

Recalling that he was on the Bada Danda, the Grand Avenue facing the 12^th century shrine during rath yatra, Nanda said he prayed for the chariot of Lord Jagannath to stop for him to pay obeisance.

“My prayer did wonders. Lord Jagannaths’ rath stopped and I had darshan. The film became a grand success due to Jagannath’s blessings,” he said, adding that there are many such memories.

Regarding the future of Odia cinema, the noted filmmaker said Lord Jagannath will continue to bless the young generation and show them the right path to achieve success in the industry.

Hailing Daman as an epoch-making movie, Nanda said the film was made at a time when Odia cinema industry was passing through a dark patch. It has rekindled hope and showed that the youngsters have enormous talent to revive the sector.