India lost one of its most distinguished literary figures as renowed Odia poet and former bureaucrat Ramakanta Rath passed away at his residence in Kharvel Nagar, Bhubaneswar, on Sunday. He was 90 years old and had been a revered name in both literature and administration.
Rath, a Padma Bhushan awardee, is survived by his three daughters and a son. Rath’s last rites will be conducted in Puri Swargadwar on Monday with full state honours, following the arrival of his son from abroad, as reported by PTI.
His demise has left a deep void in the literary and administrative spheres, with several eminent personalities, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing their condolences.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed profound grief, highlighting Rath’s contributions to Indian literature and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Calling him an inspiration, Majhi stated that Rath’s works will be remembered for generations.
President Droupadi Murmu, in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledged Rath’s immense contribution to Odia and Indian literature. She extended her deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, calling him an effective administrator and a gifted poet. “His poetry resonated with people across generations. Saddened by his passing. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” PM Modi shared on X.
Who was Ramakanta Rath?
Born on December 13, 1934, in Cuttack, Ramakanta Rath pursued his Master’s degree in English Literature from Ravenshaw College. He joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1957 and served in various key positions before retiring as Chief Secretary of Odisha in 1992.
Despite his decorated administrative career, Rath’s true legacy lies in his poetry, which captivated readers with its deep philosophical and aesthetic essence.
Some of Rath’s most celebrated works include “Kete Dinara,” “Aneka Kothari,” “Sandigdha Mrugaya,” “Saptama Rutu,” “Sachitra Andhara,” “Sri Radha,” and “Sreshtha Kavita.” His poetry has been translated into multiple languages, ensuring his influence reaches beyond Odia literature.
