Poet Ramakanta Rath Passes Away: Renowned literary figure and Padma Bhushan awardee Ramakanta Rath has passed away at the age of 91. He breathed his last at his residence in Kharavel Nagar, Bhubaneswar.
Ramakanta Rath was born on December 13, 1934, in Cuttack. After completing his graduation in English from Ravenshaw College, he joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1957. He served in administrative positions for 35 years before retiring in 1992.
The poetry collection Shri Radha, written by Ramakanta Rath, gained immense popularity. This collection, composed in 1984, earned him the Saraswati Samman in 1992. Shri Radha is considered a classic in Indian poetry.
The book has been translated into English and eight Indian languages, receiving widespread admiration from readers. The English translation was done by Ramakanta Rath himself. In Shri Radha, the poet attempts to present Radha not merely as Krishna’s lover but as an independent woman with her own identity.
Odisha Chief Minister Expresses Grief Over the Demise of Ramakanta Rath
Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of renowned modern Odia poet Ramakanta Rath.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister stated that the late Padma Bhushan awardee Ramakanta Rath was one of the finest poets in Indian literature. His timeless works such as Saptama Ritu, Shri Radha, Sachitra Andhara, Kete Dinara, Duar Epatu, and Naja Naja Kahu Kahu will forever keep him immortal in the world of literature.
Apart from his literary contributions, he also played a crucial role in the development of the state, having served in key administrative positions, including as a secretary in various departments and as the Chief Secretary of Odisha.
His contribution to taking Odia literature to both national and international platforms is undeniable. He was honored with the Saraswati Samman for Shri Radha, the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award for Saptama Ritu, and the Sarala Award for Sachitra Andhara. He was also recognized as a Fellow of the Sahitya Akademi for his remarkable literary achievements.
His demise is an irreparable loss to the literary world. The Chief Minister prayed for the eternal peace of his soul and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Chief Minister has also directed that the last rites of the legendary poet and literary figure be conducted with full state honors.
