Kolkata 

Renowned Bengali film director Anik Dutta passed away in Kolkata on Wednesday (May 27, 2026) at his multi-storey residence. He was 66.

Police have registered a case of unnatural death. 

The incident took place at his wife’s residence in south Kolkata’s Hindustan Park area. Mr. Dutta was rushed to a private hospital, but did not survive. 

Police are yet to ascertain whether there is any foul play involved. Neither the police nor the family had issued any statement till late on Wednesday (May 27, 2026). 

Mr Dutta is survived by his wife and daughter. His last rites are expected to be performed on Thursday. 

He rose to fame with his directorial debut, Bhooter Bhabishyat, in 2012. The movie became a sensation among Bengali audience for its quirky, poetic dialogues and relatable comic moments, which were a sharp blend of politics and social issues. Almost 14 years after its release, some of the film’s dialogues and catchphrases continue to be widely quoted in conversations among Bengalis. 

Its widespread popularity led to a Hindi remake, Gang Of Ghosts, directed by Satish Kaushik. 

Mr. Dutta went on to make other acclaimed films like Borunbabur Bondhu (2020) and Aparajito (2022). His latest directorial venture was Joto Kando Kolkatatei (2025). 

Known for his Left-leaning views, Mr. Dutta was always vocal about socio-political issues and had often criticised then West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. His film Bhobishyoter Bhoot (2019) faced backlash for its satirical take on socio-political issues and was withdrawn from several screens across the State shortly after its release. 

Condolences pour in

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari expressed grief over Mr. Dutta’s death. “Saddened by the untimely demise of renowned filmmaker Shri Anik Dutta. His contributions towards Bengali Cinema are priceless,” Mr. Adhikari wrote on social media. He added that the Kolkata Police would investigate “the mysterious circumstances shrouding his sudden death”.

Leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), including State secretary Mohammad Salim and Satarup Ghosh, visited the hospital where Mr. Dutta had been admitted after the fall. 

“He was honest and upright in his work. But we have to accept what has happened. The people of Bengal could have gotten much more from him,” Mr. Salim said. 

Several members of the Bengali film industry, politicians, and fans visited the hospital and shared their condolences. Mr. Dutta’s body was later shifted to the government-run SSKM Hospital for post-mortem. 

“He had physical ailments. We also knew he was suffering from mental distress, but we did not have any hint that something like this would happen,” actress Debolina Dutta said. 

Film director Kaushik Ganguly, actor turned MLA Rudranil Ghosh, actor Jeetu Kamal and actress Manashi Sinha were among those seen at the hospital. 

Mr. Dutta had celebrated his birthday on May 22 and shared nostalgic memories and photos on social media. 

As a fan of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, Mr. Dutta often paid subtle tributes to the stalwart director through his works. 

He was the grandson of Narendra Chandra Dutta, the founder of United Bank of India. 

This article contains references to suicide and mental health issues. Those in distress may contact Sanjivini, Society for Mental Health suicide prevention helpline: 011-40769002.