Manoj Mitra, an iconic name in Bengali theatre and cinema, is remembered not just for his acting skills but also for his unmatched contributions as a playwright, director, and academic. His creative works spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of India. In this article, we will explore Manoj Mitra’s life, his professional journey, personal details like age, height, weight, and finally, the incredible net worth he amassed through his prolific career.
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ToggleEarly Life and Education
Manoj Mitra was born on December 22, 1938, in Satkhira, which at the time was part of Bengal Presidency (now in Bangladesh). His father, Ashok Kumar Mitra, had a government job, leading to frequent transfers, which meant a rather nomadic early life. Despite the moving around, Mitra was exposed to a culturally rich environment, which nurtured his growing interest in the performing arts.
Mitra’s initial education was at home due to his father’s job. However, he later attended Dandirhat N.K.U.S. Niketan near Basirhat and then graduated in Philosophy from Scottish Church College in Kolkata in 1958. His higher education continued at the University of Calcutta, where he completed his Master’s degree in Philosophy. While pursuing his academic studies, Mitra’s passion for theatre grew exponentially. His journey into theatre began with his involvement in local plays, despite initial resistance from his family. He later went on to gain a reputation as a serious theatre artist

Theatre and Playwriting Career
Mitra’s career in theatre began in earnest with his first successful play, “Mrityur Chokhe Jal”, which won a prize in a statewide competition. His breakthrough came in 1972 with the play “Chak Bhanga Madhu”, marking him as one of the foremost playwrights in Bengali theatre. His ability to blend humor with deep social and political commentary made his plays unique. Over the years, Mitra wrote more than 100 plays, exploring themes of societal injustice, the struggles of common people, and human resilience. Some of his most famous works include:
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“Sajano Bagan”
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“Narak Guljar”
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“Aswathama”
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“Galpo Hekim Saheb”
Beyond writing, Mitra was also a director and actor, contributing immensely to both Bengali theatre and Indian cinema. He founded the theatre group Sundaram and later formed another group, Ritayan, before returning to Sundaram. His involvement in these groups was crucial in shaping the direction of modern Bengali theatre
Cinematic Contributions
Manoj Mitra’s foray into cinema came naturally, as many of his plays were adapted into films. Notably, the film “Banchharamer Bagan”, based on his own play Sajano Bagan, earned him widespread recognition as a talented actor. He also acted in classics directed by legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, including “Ghare Baire” and “Ganashatru”. His involvement in films further cemented his place as one of the foremost actors in Bengali cinema.
Though known primarily for his theatre work, Mitra’s ability to effortlessly transition between different media made him a versatile figure in the entertainment world. His acting career spanned several decades, showcasing his unparalleled talent in both stage and screen performances
Manoj Mitra’s Height, Weight, and Physical Stats
As Manoj Mitra was a private individual, information regarding his height, weight, and other personal physical statistics is not widely documented. However, it is clear from his performances that Mitra had a commanding stage presence, which resonated through his characters. His physicality in theatre and cinema was matched only by his emotional depth, making him an actor who could captivate audiences with both his appearance and his performance.
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Personal Life
Manoj Mitra was a man who dedicated much of his life to his art, and as such, he kept his personal life relatively private. He was married and had a daughter, though details about his family life were kept largely out of the public eye. His work and contributions to Bengali culture were his primary focus, and he spent most of his life in Kolkata, where he was deeply embedded in the cultural scene
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his illustrious career, Mitra received numerous prestigious awards in recognition of his contributions to the arts. Some of his most notable awards include:
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1985) for his contribution to Indian theatre
- Filmfare Award for Best Actor (1980) for his role in Banchharamer Bagan
- Banga Bibhushan, one of the highest honors conferred by the state of West Bengal
- Asiatic Society Award (2005) for his contribution to Bengali literature and theatre
These accolades reflect the immense respect Manoj Mitra commanded in both the theatre world and in Indian cinema

Manoj Mitra’s Net Worth
While it is difficult to ascertain the exact net worth of Manoj Mitra, estimates suggest that his fortune was in the range of $1 million to $5 million by the time of his passing. This wealth was accumulated through his diverse career in acting, playwriting, and teaching. His involvement in theatre productions, films, and his academic work as a professor at Rabindra Bharati University, where he eventually became the head of the department, contributed significantly to his financial success
Mitra’s wealth also reflects his long-standing influence on Bengali theatre and cinema, where his plays and films were not only critically acclaimed but also beloved by audiences. The continued success of his plays in various adaptations and revivals across the years suggests a lasting financial legacy as well
Manoj Mitra’s Legacy
Manoj Mitra’s influence on Indian theatre and cinema is immeasurable. His plays tackled complex social issues with humor and wit, often making the audience think critically about the world around them. His characters, whether on stage or in film, were always deeply human and relatable, making his performances resonate with audiences across generations.
Mitra’s passing on November 12, 2024, at the age of 85, marked the end of an era for Bengali theatre. The news of his death was met with an outpouring of tributes from various sectors of the entertainment world, including messages of grief from notable figures such as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who described Mitra as an irreplaceable cultural icon
Conclusion
Manoj Mitra’s life story is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. From his early days in Satkhira to becoming one of the most respected figures in Bengali theatre, Mitra’s career was defined by his unwavering commitment to telling the stories of ordinary people, often through the lens of humor and satire. His legacy in the realms of theatre, cinema, and academia ensures that he will never be forgotten. His incredible net worth is a reflection of the immense contributions he made to his field, and his passing marks the loss of a giant in the world of performing arts.