Veteran Jatra (opera) artist Mahendra Das, popularly known as Viku Seth, passed away at his residence in Choudwar early on Saturday morning. He was 55.
Das, who suffered severe chest pain late on Friday night, died on the way to a hospital.
The Jollywood actor, who played negative characters throughout his career, ruled the stage for over 30 years. He shot to fame with the superhit play ‘Saguna Basichi Dena Malei’ for his dialogue ‘Na ta tahale Mina, Bhala Nachila’.
Das had also played a villain character in Odia film ‘Jashoda’.
“He was a rare gem in Jollywood. His rhetoric and distinct dialogue delivery captivated audience throughout his career,” said a friend of Das.