Bhubaneswar: Veteran Ollywood actor Minaketan Das passed away late last night at his residence in Balianta on the outskirts of Odisha capital following prolonged illness. He was 56.

Das breathed his last at 2.35 am, sources said.

He was suffering from pancreatic cancer and undergoing treatment at Asian Cancer Institute in Mumbai.

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Earlier, Minaketan was admitted to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar after he felt pain due to excess release of sodium from his body. He was diagnosed with the cancer after undergoing medical tests including ultrasound and endoscopy.

A pall of gloom descended on the Odia film industry after the sudden demise of Minaketan.

Being a versatile actor, Minaketan had earned accolades not only in Ollywood but also in Jollywood-- Odisha's Jatra (theatre) industry.

Minaketan debuted as a film actor with Odia movie 'Gangasiuli' in which he won hearts of many playing a strong negative character.

Later in his acting career, he showcased his efficiency in playing comedy characters.