Utpal Dutt was an iconic figure in the Indian film and theatre industry. He was known for his versatility as an actor, director, and playwright. Born in the year 1929, Dutt had a long and illustrious career that spanned over four decades.

Dutt’s contribution to Indian theatre was immense. He was a founding member of the “Little Theater Group”, which aimed to bring theatre to the masses. He was also a prolific playwright, with many of his plays being adapted into films. As an actor, he was known for his ability to play a wide range of characters, and his performances were always captivating. In this article, we will delve deeper into the life and career of Utpal Dutt, and explore some of his most memorable works.

Utpal Dutt was a renowned Indian actor, director, and writer who worked in Bengali and Hindi cinema. He was known for his versatility and his contributions to the Indian theater scene. Dutt began his acting career in the early 1950s and went on to establish himself as a prominent figure in Indian cinema. He acted in over 200 films and directed several critically acclaimed plays. His work was characterized by his commitment to social and political issues, and he was known for his outspoken views on the state of Indian society. Utpal Dutt’s legacy continues to inspire actors and writers in India and around the world.

Full Details: Utpal Dutt

Physical Statistics

Utpal Dutt was a renowned Indian actor, director, and playwright who was known for his versatile acting skills and contribution to the Indian film industry. He was born on March 29, 1929, in Barisal, Bengal, British India. He was a tall man with a height of 6 feet 2 inches and weighed around 75 kg. Utpal Dutt was known for his roles in movies like Gol Maal, Shatranj Ke Khiladi, and Agantuk. His eye color was brown, and he wore a UK size 9 shoe. He had black hair which added to his charming personality.

Family

Unknown Facts About Utpal Dutt

Who Was Utpal Dutt?

Have you heard of Utpal Dutt? He was an Indian actor, director, and writer who made a significant contribution to Indian theatre and cinema. He was a multi-talented artist who was not only an accomplished actor but also a prolific writer and director. He was known for his unique style of acting and his ability to bring life to any character he portrayed. But did you know that there are some unknown facts about Utpal Dutt that will surprise you?

What Were Some of His Achievements?

Utpal Dutt was a legendary figure in Indian theatre and cinema. He started his career as a stage actor and went on to become one of the most prominent figures in Indian theatre. He was the founder of the Little Theatre Group in Kolkata, which was instrumental in shaping the modern theatre movement in India. He was also a prolific writer and director and has written and directed several plays and films. His contribution to Indian cinema was also significant, and he acted in several iconic movies like “Gol Maal,” “Agantuk,” and “Bhuvan Shome.”

Discover the Untold Story of Utpal Dutt

Despite his achievements, there are several unknown facts about Utpal Dutt that are not widely known. For instance, did you know that he was a member of the Communist Party of India and actively participated in several social and political movements in India? He also played a significant role in the formation of the Indian People’s Theatre Association. If you’re interested in learning more about this legendary figure, then stay tuned to discover the untold story of Utpal Dutt.

Utpal Dutt: An Iconic Figure in Indian Theatre and Cinema

Early Life and Career

Childhood and Education

Utpal Dutt was born on March 29, 1929, in Barisal, Bengal Presidency, British India (now in Bangladesh). He was the eldest of three brothers. His father, Girijaranjan Dutt, was a lawyer, and his mother, Sabitri Devi, was a housewife. Dutt completed his schooling from St. Xavier’s Collegiate School in Kolkata and later pursued a degree in English literature from the University of Calcutta.

Entry into Theatre

Dutt’s interest in theatre began during his college days when he joined the Little Theatre Group in Kolkata. Later, he formed his own theatre group, the Bohurupee, in 1948, which became one of the most prominent theatre groups in Kolkata. Dutt’s plays were known for their satirical and political themes, and he became a leading figure in the Indian theatre scene.

Career in Cinema

Dutt made his debut in cinema with the film, “Mr. and Mrs. 55” in 1955. He went on to act in numerous films, including “Nagarik” (1952), “Golmaal” (1979), and “Rang Birangi” (1983). Dutt’s performances in films were highly appreciated, and he won several awards for his acting, including the National Film Award for Best Actor for “Bhuvan Shome” (1969).

Political Beliefs and Activism

Marxist Ideology

Dutt was a staunch Marxist and believed in using his art as a medium for political activism. He was a member of the Communist Party of India and used his plays and films to spread Marxist ideology. His plays, “Kallol” (1965) and “Tiner Talowar” (1966), were highly political and criticized the capitalist system.

Trade Unionist

Apart from his work in art and politics, Dutt was also a trade unionist. He was the president of the Federation of Film Societies of India and the General Secretary of the Indian People’s Theatre Association. He fought for the rights of the working class and was arrested several times for his activism.

Opposition to Emergency

During the Emergency period in India (1975-1977), Dutt was a vocal opponent of the government’s actions. He was arrested and sent to jail for his activism. However, he continued to fight for democracy and freedom of speech throughout his life.

Legacy and Awards

Legacy in Theatre

Dutt’s legacy in theatre is immense. He was one of the pioneers of the Indian theatre movement and inspired several generations of theatre artists. His plays, “Meghnad Badh Rahasya” and “Maa Bhoomi”, are considered classics of Indian theatre.

Legacy in Cinema

Dutt’s legacy in cinema is equally impressive. He acted in over 200 films and was known for his versatility as an actor. His performances in films like “Guddi” (1971), “Naram Garam” (1981), and “Bhavni Bhavai” (1980) are still remembered today.

Awards

Dutt won several awards for his contribution to theatre and cinema. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Bhushan in 1988. He also won the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1968 and the National Film Award for Best Actor in 1969.

Personal Life and Death

Family Life

Dutt was married to Sova Sen, a renowned theatre actress. They had two children, Bishnupriya and Shambhu. Both of them followed in their parents’ footsteps and became theatre artists.

Death

Dutt passed away on August 19, 1993, in Kolkata, at the age of 64. His death was a great loss to the Indian theatre and cinema industry.

Funeral

Dutt’s funeral was attended by thousands of people, including politicians, artists, and fans. He was given a state funeral and his body was cremated with full state honors.

Final Words

Utpal Dutt was a visionary artist who used his art as a medium for political activism. He was a true icon of Indian theatre and cinema and his contribution to both these fields is immeasurable. His legacy continues to inspire generations of theatre and cinema artists.

Utpal Dutt was a legendary figure in the Indian film industry. He started his career as a stage actor and went on to become a prominent figure in Indian cinema. His acting prowess and ability to bring characters to life on screen are unparalleled. His contribution to Indian cinema is immeasurable.

Dutt was not just an actor, but also a writer and director. He wrote and directed several plays and films that challenged social norms and addressed pressing issues of the time. He was a vocal critic of the political establishment and used his art to bring attention to social injustices.

Even after his passing, Dutt’s legacy lives on. His work continues to inspire new generations of artists and his contribution to Indian cinema remains relevant. His ability to use his art as a tool for social change is a lesson that we can all learn from.

In a world where artists are often criticized for their political beliefs, Utpal Dutt stands as a shining example of the power of art to bring attention to important issues. His work will continue to inspire and his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.