Bengali film and television actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee died on Sunday after drowning at Talsari beach in Odisha, according to people from the film industry and local officials. He was 43.
The actor had travelled to the coastal location near Digha for the shooting of an upcoming Bengali television project. After wrapping up work for the day, he reportedly entered the sea, where the incident occurred under unclear circumstances.
Members of the production team noticed distress in the water and rushed to pull him out. He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital in Digha, where doctors declared him brought dead.
Police officials said they are working to piece together the exact sequence of events. Authorities in West Bengal have been in touch with their counterparts in Odisha, and a case of unnatural death has been registered. Statements from crew members and eyewitnesses are being recorded as part of the inquiry.
Banerjee is survived by his wife, actor Priyanka Sarkar, and their son.
The news has sent shockwaves through the Bengali entertainment industry. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the actor’s sudden passing, describing it as a significant loss to the industry.
Banerjee first gained widespread recognition with his role in the 2008 film Chirodini Tumi Je Amar. Over the years, he featured in several films and television shows, building a steady presence in both mediums. His work included projects such as Zulfiqar and Byomkesh Gotro, along with popular television serials.
First Published onMarch 30, 2026, 15:42:25 IST
