The Odia film industry, famously known as , has a rich cinematic legacy spanning nine decades. From its modest beginnings in 1936 to its contemporary global resurgence, the industry has evolved through eras of mythological storytelling, socio-cultural dramas, and recent experimental blockbusters. The Inception and Early Growth (1936–1970)
(2022), starring Babushaan Mohanty , became a nationwide sensation with a 9.3 IMDb rating, portraying a doctor's struggle in rural Malkangiri.
: Only two films were produced between 1936 and 1951.
: Early legends like Nitai Palit (director of Malajanha ) and Sarat Pujari were instrumental in professionalising the industry. The Golden Era (1976–2000)
After a period of decline characterized by unoriginal remakes, Odia cinema has entered a "New Dawn" focused on realistic storytelling and high production values. :
(1976) was the first full-colour Odia film. Hisab Nikas (1982) introduced Cinemascope. Swapna Sagara (1982) was the first 70mm film in Odia.