Samit Bhanja (Bengali: শমিত ভঞ্জ; 2 January 1944 – 24 July 2003) was an Indian actor and director known for his work in the Bengali cinema. He was one of the most promising actors of his time, working in both Bengali and Hindi cinema. [2]
Early life
Bhanja was born in Tamluk, Purba Medinipur in an affluent family, originally from Chandrakona, Ghatal to Pritimoy Bhanja and Shila Debi.[2] His grandfather had moved to Tamluk for his legal practice. He received his formal education from the prestigious Hamilton High School. Throughout his childhood he displayed a rebellious and adventurous spirit. Often getting into all sorts of troubles and fights in the neighborhood for this attribute.[3]
Career
Since his school days he had an active passion for acting, he even joined a local acting club called the "Kalpotaru friends club" at Tamluk. Subsequently, he joined Rupkar, the theatre group of Sabitabrata Dutta and enacted in several plays in early 1960s. He made his screen debut with Balai Sen's 1965 Bengali film Surer Agun.[1] He is remembered as the male lead, Navin, of the successful Hindi film Guddi, opposite Jaya Bhaduri. In addition to acting in film, he acted in theatre and jatras, and was associated with the Rupkar group theatre.[4][2]
Personal life
He married his childhood sweetheart Ranja and had 3 daughters, Rakhi, Bidisha and Saheli.[2]
Death
He lost his life to cancer[3] in Kolkata at the age of 59.Veteran and esteemed actor Soumitra Chatterjee provided him crucial aid at this tough juncture.[5][4][2]
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