Bollywood actor Sanjay Mishra arrives in Bhubaneswar for his Odia film debut

Bhubaneswar: Critically-acclaimed actor Sanjay Mishra has arrived in Bhubaneswar for the shoot of his first Odia film project, marking a new chapter in his versatile career.

The veteran actor reached the Odisha capital on Thursday and is set to film until around August 26, with the project expected to release during the Dussehra festive season. Interacting with reporters upon arrival, Mishra expressed enthusiasm for working in Odia cinema. “I have come here to shoot for an Odia film. The shooting will begin on Friday, and I find the script really good,” he said.

He praised both the project’s script and the local audience, noting, “The Odia audience is very appreciative. I worked in Nila Madhab Panda’s film ‘Kadvi Hawa’, which was made in Hindi but received global appreciation and awards. Good work happens here, and that is why I am back.”

When asked for details about the film and his role, Mishra preferred to keep specifics under wraps for now. “I just landed today, and filming starts tomorrow. Let’s see what happens tomorrow; I will share more details after 10 days or so,” he said.

He added that he will meet his co-stars for the first time on set during the 15-to-20-day schedule across local destinations. Addressing potential language barriers, the actor embraced the experience with optimism. “It will be fun. Having done a lot of work in Hindi, working in different regional languages offers a totally distinct experience,” he expressed.

The film features several well-known faces from the Ollywood industry, including veteran actress Mahasweta Ray, popular actress Bhumika Dash, and actors Aakash Hota, Sanoj Kumar and Pragya Mishra.

During his stay, Mishra also plans religious pilgrimages in the auspicious month of Shravan. Having visited Bhubaneswar numerous times before, he expressed a desire to seek blessings at the Lingaraj Temple in the city and Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. “I have been to Bhubaneswar more than a hundred times, though quietly visiting Lord Jagannath earlier. Since it is the holy month of Shravan and our shooting locations are nearby, I will definitely seek blessings,” he remarked.

Mishra’s Odia debut has generated interest among local film enthusiasts, given his reputation for distinctive performances across comedy, drama and character-driven roles in Hindi cinema.