Five-time award-winning cinematographer Dilip Ray passes away at 72 after brief illness
Cinematographer Dilip Ray has passed away at the age of 72. Read about his remarkable journey, famous films, award-winning career and the tributes that followed his death.
Cinematographer Dilip Ray, whose work helped shape Odia cinema for several decades, has died at the age of 72. Ray died at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar on Friday night after a brief illness, his family confirmed PTI On Saturday.
An iconic name in Oriya and Bengali filmmaking, Ray’s death has drawn tributes from the film fraternity and political leaders alike. He is survived by his wife and three daughters. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described his demise as an “irreparable loss” to the state’s artistic and cultural landscape and said Ray’s contribution in enriching the Odia film industry would always be remembered.
❮❯
What did the leaders say after his death?
Expressing grief over Ray’s demise, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said, “His extraordinary artistic contribution in enriching the Odia film industry will always be remembered. His passing is an irreparable loss to the world of our art and culture.”
The Chief Minister also expressed his condolences to Ray’s bereaved family. With a career spanning regional cinema, documentaries and television, Dilip Ray leaves behind a legacy that has continued to influence generations of filmmakers and cinematographers.
Who was Dilip Ray?
Born in Cuttack on July 27, 1954, Dilip Ray trained in cinematography at the Film and Television Institute (FTI), Bengaluru, before embarking on a career that spanned several decades. Known for his technical proficiency and visual storytelling, he became one of the most respected cinematographers in regional cinema.
During his career, Ray worked in more than 80 Oriya feature films, about 15 Bengali films and several Chhattisgarhi productions. His works also include documentaries and television serials, showing his versatility across a variety of formats.
Which films and awards defined his career?
Ray received the Odisha State Film Award for Best Cinematography five times, cementing his reputation as one of the finest visual artists in the industry. Some of his most recognized Oriya films include Tisandhya, Baje Banksy Naache Ghungura, Chaka Bhaunri, Eta Duniya, Mamta Ra Dora, Majhi Pahacha And bidhira bidhana.
His cinematography played a vital role in bringing these stories to life, earning appreciation for its visual depth and craftsmanship.