Jharana Das (b. 1945)
Major 60s Oriya actress in melodramas like Amada Bata, Abhinetri and esp. the classic Malajanha. Born in a Christian family; a noted child artist on AIR, Cuttack. Learnt dance from Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra, the main dance teacher in the classical form of Odissi. Returned to radio work and achieved immense popularity in radio plays before joining films with Amada Bata. Appointed assistant station director for Cuttack Doordarshan and acted in TV programmes e.g. Ghare Bhada Diya Jiba and Manisha, while continuing her film career. Directed a documentary on the Orissa politician H.K. Mahtab. Married Bengali cameraman Dipak Das.
FILMOGRAPHY: 1964: Amada Bata; Nabajanma; 1965: Abhinetri; Malajanha; 1970: Adina Megha; 1979: Shri Jagannath; 1981: Tike Hasa Tike Luha; 1982: Samaya Bada Balabaan; Hisab Nikas; Jwain Pua; 1983: Mahasati Sabitri; 1984: Ninad; 1985: Pooja Phula; Hakim Babu; 1987: Kasturi; 1988: Lal Pan Bibi; 1989: Topaye Sindoora Deepata Sankha.