Debjani Deghuria Savours First State Best Actress Honour: “A Memory for Life”

Bhubaneswar: For more than 15 years, actress Debjani Deghuria has been a familiar face in the Odia entertainment industry. After winning hearts as one of Odisha’s most popular “album queens” and building a successful career in films, the actress has now achieved one of the biggest milestones of her journey—winning the Best Actress award at the Odisha State Film Awards 2024 for her performance in Bhagia Bharija.

Receiving the prestigious honour from Mohan Charan Majhi, Debjani described the recognition as a moment she never expected.
Speaking to Odia Celebrity, the actress said she was completely taken aback when she learned she had won the State Best Actress award.

“It came as a complete shock. This is my first State Best Actress award, and it is a moment I’ll cherish forever. Every actor dreams of receiving such recognition, and I feel truly blessed.”

Debjani said 2024 turned out to be a landmark year in her career with two women-centric films—Sita: Sangharsa Ra Kahani and Bhagia Bharija—releasing during the year.

“Both films had powerful female characters. Sita was emotionally intense and one of the most challenging roles I’ve played, while Bhagia Bharija featured a more contemporary woman. I am happy that I received the award for Bhagia Bharija, though both roles are equally special to me.”

Among the most emotional moments of the ceremony, she said, was sharing the occasion with her mother.

“I attended the awards with my mother. Receiving such a prestigious honour with her by my side made the moment even more memorable. It’s a memory we’ll both cherish forever.”

The actress also congratulated fellow actor Harihar Mohapatra, who won the Best Actor award for Dho Re Babu Dho.

“I am genuinely happy for everyone who received recognition. We are all part of the Odia film industry, and every award inspires us to work harder and take our cinema to greater heights.”

Known for her remarkable journey from appearing in hundreds of Odia music videos to becoming one of the industry’s leading actresses, Debjani has consistently impressed audiences with performances in films such as Ajatshatru, Samapaju Ra Raghu, Sita: Sangharsa Ra Kahani and Bhagia Bharija.
Looking ahead, the actress says she is excited about the future, with several new projects already in the pipeline.

“I have a few films lined up, and the announcements will be made soon. I want to continue taking up meaningful roles that challenge me as an actor. This award motivates me to work even harder.”

For Debjani Deghuria, the State Best Actress award is not just a recognition of a memorable performance but a defining milestone in a career built on perseverance, passion and the constant pursuit of better roles.