Veteran cinematographer Dillip Ray, one of the most accomplished names in Odia cinema, has passed away at the age of 72 after a brief illness.As reported by PTI, Dillip Ray breathed his last at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar on Friday night. He is survived by his wife and three daughters. Dillip Ray worked across feature films, documentaries, and television.
A distinguished career behind the camera
Born on July 27, 1954, in Cuttack, Dillip Ray developed an early interest in cinematography. To pursue his passion professionally, he studied at the Film and Television Institute (FTI) in Bengaluru, where he received formal training in the craft.
Worked across multiple film industries
Dillip Ray worked on more than 80 Odia feature films and around 15 Bengali productions. His filmography also included several Chhattisgarhi films, documentaries, and television serials.Among the most notable films in his career are ‘Tisandhya’, ‘Mamata Ra Dora’, ‘Majhi Pahacha’, and ‘Bidhira Bidhana’.
Five-time Odisha State Film award winner
Dillip Ray received the Odisha State Film Award for Best Cinematography five times.Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the veteran cinematographer’s passing. Paying tribute, the Chief Minister said, “His extraordinary artistic contributions to enriching the Odia film industry will always remain memorable. His departure is an irreparable loss to our world of art and culture.”Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also mourned the loss of the celebrated cinematographer and remembered his lifelong service to Indian cinema.In his message, he wrote, “I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear the news of the demise of Dilip Ray, the renowned cinematographer of Odisha. His unparalleled contributions to enriching the world of Indian cinema and television, including Odisha, are immeasurable. His dedication and service to the film industry will remain eternally memorable. While praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul, I extend my condolences to the bereaved family members. Om Shanti.”