Five-time award-winning cinematographer Dillip Ray dies at 72 after brief illness

Cinematographer Dillip Ray has died at 72. Read about his remarkable journey, celebrated films, award-winning career and the tributes pouring in after his death.

In Short

• He is survived by his wife and three daughters, family confirmed
• Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi called his death an irreparable cultural loss
• Born in Cuttack, Ray trained in cinematography at FTI, Bengaluru

Cinematographer Dillip Ray, whose work helped shape Odia cinema over 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 to PTI on Saturday.

A celebrated name in Odia and Bengali filmmaking, Ray's death has prompted 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 death as an "irreparable loss" to the state's artistic and cultural landscape, saying Ray's contribution to enriching the Odia film industry would always be remembered.

What did leaders say after his death?

Expressing grief over Ray's death, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi 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."

The Chief Minister also extended his condolences to Ray's bereaved family. With a career spanning regional cinema, documentaries and television, Dillip Ray leaves behind a legacy that continues to influence generations of filmmakers and cinematographers.

Who was Dillip Ray?

Born on July 27, 1954, in Cuttack, Dillip 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 finesse and visual storytelling, he became one of the most respected cinematographers in regional cinema.

Over the course of his career, Ray worked on more than 80 Odia feature films, around 15 Bengali films and several Chhattisgarhi productions. His body of work also included documentaries and television serials, reflecting his versatility across different 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 industry's finest visual artists. Some of his most recognised Odia films include Tisandhya, Baje Bainsi Nache Ghungura, Chaka Bhaunri, Ei Ta Dunia, Mamata Ra Dora, Majhi Pahacha and Bidhira Bidhana.

His cinematography played a significant role in bringing these stories to life, earning appreciation for its visual depth and craftsmanship.

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