Veteran Ollywood Filmmaker S.K. Muralidharan Passes Away in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: Veteran Odia filmmaker, choreographer, and writer S.K. Muralidharan passed away in Bhubaneswar, sending shockwaves across the Odia film fraternity and cultural circles in Odisha.
He was found unconscious in a hotel room on Monday and was later declared dead.
According to preliminary reports, Muralidharan had reportedly complained of feeling unwell and asked an associate for food shortly before the incident.
Police recovered his body from the hotel and sent it to Capital Hospital for further examination.
The exact cause of death will be known after the completion of the investigation and post-mortem examination.
The demise of the celebrated filmmaker has sparked an outpouring of grief from political leaders and members of the Odia film industry.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the loss and paid tribute to his contributions to Odia cinema.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo also conveyed condolences, describing his contribution to the film industry as invaluable.
A prominent figure in Ollywood, Muralidharan began his journey as a choreographer with the Odia film Paradeshi Chadhei in 1990.
He later transitioned into filmmaking and made his directorial debut with Chaati Chiri Dele Tu in 2008. Over the years, he became known for his creative vision and impactful storytelling.
His notable works include Mani Nageswari, Stree, Sathire, I Love You, Dhanare Rakhibu Sapatha Mora, Abhimanyu, Rangila Toka, Love Master, Akhire Akhire, and Pilata Bigidigala.
He also showcased his talent beyond Odisha by choreographing the Telugu film Om Sairam in 2012.
With a career spanning decades, Muralidharan played a significant role in shaping modern Odia cinema.
His passing marks a major loss for the Odia entertainment industry, with colleagues, fans, and well-wishers remembering him for his dedication to filmmaking and choreography.
