Anjan Dutt is a well-known name in the Indian film industry, particularly in Bengali cinema, where he has made significant contributions both as an actor and a filmmaker. Apart from his work in the film industry, Dutt has also left a lasting impression as a singer, musician, and lyricist. His versatility across various artistic fields has made him a cultural icon in Bengal and beyond. With a career that spans decades, his films, songs, and performances have touched the hearts of many, making him one of the most respected figures in Bengali cinema.
In this biography, we will delve into Anjan Dutt’s early life, career journey, notable works, physical attributes, and his incredible net worth. Whether you are a long-time fan or just learning about him, this article will offer a comprehensive look into his life and the remarkable legacy he has built.
Who is Anjan Dutt?

Anjan Dutt is a multifaceted personality—an actor, director, singer, and composer—best known for his work in Bengali cinema. He has earned widespread recognition for his contribution to the independent Bengali film movement and his unique style of filmmaking. His works often reflect the cultural and social nuances of Bengali society, blending cinema with music in innovative ways. Apart from his accomplishments in the film industry, Dutt is also an established name in the music industry, known for his soulful singing and evocative compositions.
Born in Kolkata, West Bengal, Anjan Dutt made his acting debut in the early 1980s and quickly gained popularity for his natural acting style. As a director, his films often feature complex, well-rounded characters and explore deep themes, from urban alienation to self-discovery. He is best known for his portrayal of the “Byomkesh Bakshi” character, a fictional Bengali detective, in films based on the popular literary works of Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay.
Anjan Dutt’s Early Life and Education
Anjan Dutt was born on January 19, 1963, in Kolkata, West Bengal, into a middle-class Bengali family. He grew up in a culturally rich environment, with exposure to literature, music, and art from an early age. His father, Bishnu Dutt, was a businessman, while his mother, Urmila Dutt, was a homemaker. He was the eldest of three siblings, and from a young age, he displayed an interest in acting and music.
Dutt completed his early education at St. Xavier’s Collegiate School in Kolkata. He was known for his academic achievements and for being an active participant in cultural activities during his school days. His love for drama and literature was evident as he participated in various school plays and poetry recitals. This early exposure to performance arts sparked his interest in pursuing acting as a career.
After completing his schooling, Anjan Dutt enrolled at Jadavpur University to pursue English Literature. His time at university was significant, as it allowed him to immerse himself in intellectual discussions, literature, and the arts. He was also introduced to the vibrant theater scene of Kolkata, which further solidified his desire to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. During this period, he began participating in amateur theater and acting in plays, which would lay the foundation for his future career in films and music.
Anjan Dutt’s Career Journey
Anjan Dutt’s career began with theater and television, but he quickly transitioned into films, where he established himself as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. Over the years, he has worn many hats—actor, director, producer, and musician—showcasing his creative abilities across multiple platforms.
Acting Career

Anjan Dutt made his film debut in the 1980s with the Bengali film “Bariwali” (1999), where he received critical acclaim for his performance. He went on to act in several films, gradually gaining recognition for his natural and versatile acting skills. Some of his most notable performances include films like “Byomkesh Bakshi” (2015), “Autograph” (2010), and “The Bong Connection” (2006). His portrayal of the iconic detective Byomkesh Bakshi in the film adaptation of Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay’s literary works is regarded as one of his most iconic roles.
Director and Filmmaker
Apart from his acting career, Anjan Dutt is widely celebrated for his work as a director and screenwriter. He made his directorial debut with the film “The Bong Connection”, which was a critical success and received accolades for its portrayal of Bengali culture and the immigrant experience. As a director, Dutt’s films often feature unconventional themes, focusing on the complexities of human relationships, identity, and existential questions.
Some of his other notable directorial works include:
- “Autograph” (2010): A critically acclaimed film that blends romance, nostalgia, and self-reflection.
- “Raat Barota Panch” (2015): A unique, quirky film that deals with the intricacies of daily life and human nature.
- “Byomkesh Bakshi” (2015): The adaptation of Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay’s iconic detective character was directed by Anjan Dutt, marking another significant achievement in his career.
Anjan Dutt’s style as a director is often described as deeply rooted in realism and introspection, with a focus on human emotions and the societal issues of modern-day Bengal. His films often involve characters who are struggling with their identities, relationships, and societal expectations.
Music Career
In addition to his work in film and television, Anjan Dutt is a renowned singer, composer, and lyricist. He has released several albums and is particularly known for his folk-inspired rock music and Bengali songs. His songs are often a blend of classical Bengali tunes with modern Western music, which resonates with a broad audience. Dutt’s deep, soulful voice and evocative lyrics have made him one of the most beloved figures in the Bengali music industry.
Some of his popular songs include “Bengali Shongit”, “Rupkatha”, and “Ei To Jiban”. These songs are not just popular for their melodic beauty, but also for the way they capture the essence of Bengali culture and the complexities of life.
Anjan Dutt’s Personal Life
Anjan Dutt is known for his privacy and has kept many details of his personal life away from the public eye. However, it is known that he is married to Rina Dutt, and they have one child together. Despite his fame, Anjan Dutt has remained grounded and focused on his work, often keeping his personal and professional lives separate.
His personal life, particularly his relationships, has remained largely private, and he continues to maintain a low-key public image. In interviews, he has shared that his work—whether it be acting, directing, or music—is his primary focus, and he often prefers to let his creative work speak for itself.
Anjan Dutt’s Age, Height, and Weight
Anjan Dutt was born on January 19, 1963, which makes him 61 years old as of 2024. Throughout his career, Dutt has maintained a charismatic presence, both on and off the screen. His height is approximately 5 feet 10 inches (177 cm), and he has an athletic build, which is evident in his on-screen persona. He has always maintained a healthy lifestyle, keeping fit despite his busy career in acting, directing, and music.
While his weight is estimated to be around 75-80 kg (165-176 lbs), it is his energy and youthful spirit that continue to captivate his fans. Dutt’s dedication to his craft, including his active lifestyle, plays an important role in maintaining his public image as a versatile and charismatic actor and artist.
Anjan Dutt’s Net Worth
Anjan Dutt’s net worth is not widely publicized, but it is estimated to be substantial, considering his long and successful career in acting, directing, music, and producing. His success as a multi-talented artist has allowed him to generate significant income from his work in Bengali cinema, music albums, and television. In addition, Dutt’s popularity as a filmmaker has allowed him to accrue wealth from the success of his films.
Although there are no confirmed figures about his net worth, it is widely believed that his net worth falls in the range of ₹10 crore to ₹20 crore (approximately $1.5 million to $2.7 million). This estimate includes his earnings from film projects, music royalties, and various business ventures. His influence in the Bengali film industry and the broader entertainment sector ensures that his financial portfolio continues to grow.
Anjan Dutt’s Legacy and Influence
Anjan Dutt’s legacy extends far beyond his films and music. His influence on Bengali cinema and music has been monumental, with his works remaining relevant across generations. As a director, his films have inspired countless aspiring filmmakers, and his acting and singing have set a standard for excellence in the industry.
Through his complex characters and unique storytelling, Anjan Dutt has carved out a niche for himself in the Bengali film industry. His works continue to inspire and entertain audiences, making him a significant figure in Indian cinema.
Additionally, his contribution to Bengali music has earned him respect as a cultural ambassador, helping preserve traditional Bengali music while also introducing innovative new sounds to modern audiences. His impact on the Bengali arts and culture community is profound and continues to be celebrated by music lovers and film enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Anjan Dutt’s career is a testament to his creativity, versatility, and unwavering dedication to his craft. From his early days in Bengali theater to becoming a celebrated actor, director, and musician, he has become a cultural icon who has shaped the course of Bengali cinema. His work has inspired countless filmmakers, actors, and musicians, and his influence on the Bengali film industry continues to be felt.
Today, Anjan Dutt’s legacy is solidified not only in the films he has made but in the music he has composed, sung, and shared with the world. As a true multi-hyphenate, his contributions to Indian cinema and music will forever be remembered, and his name will continue to be celebrated by future generations of artists and fans alike.