Veteran Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen, best known for the National Award-winning film Damu, died on Sunday morning at SSKM Hospital in south Kolkata after a prolonged illness. He was 70.
Sen made his feature-film debut with Damu in 1996. The film won the National Film Award for Best Children’s Film and earned him widespread critical acclaim.
Over his decades-long career, Sen directed several feature films, television serials, and documentaries. His notable works include Desh, featuring Jaya Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, and Laboratory, starring Raveena Tandon.
He also earned national recognition for his documentary on legendary singer Suchitra Mitra. His work was known for its focus on human relationships, literature, and social issues.
Sen’s health had deteriorated following a serious injury on the set of Mayamridanga several years ago. He later developed multiple health complications, including lung and kidney problems. He was eventually placed on ventilator support after his condition worsened.
His last feature film, Bhalobashar Golpo, was released in 2019. His death has left a deep void in Bengali cinema and television.
