Bhubaneswar, March 16: The literary world has been deeply shaken by the passing of celebrated Odia poet and former civil servant, Ramakanta Rath, who died at the age of 90 at his residence in the Kharvel Nagar area of Bhubaneswar on Sunday. Family sources confirmed the sad news, which has left the community in mourning.
As news of his death spread, both the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their heartfelt condolences. In their messages, they paid tribute to the late poet’s remarkable contributions to the literary world and highlighted his role in enriching Indian culture.
President Droupadi Murmu extended her deepest sympathies, acknowledging the significant void left by his passing. She remembered his work as an important part of India's cultural heritage and praised his dedication to promoting the beauty of the Odia language.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his grief, remembering Rath’s remarkable legacy in the literary world. He highlighted the poet’s profound impact, noting that his work transcended regional boundaries and inspired countless individuals across generations. Modi’s message conveyed his admiration for Rath’s ability to touch hearts with his poetry and the indelible mark he left on India’s literary tradition.
Ramakanta Rath, a name synonymous with excellence in Odia literature, was a revered poet whose contributions to the literary world spanned decades. His work, which earned him national acclaim, resonated not only within the borders of Odisha but also across the broader Indian literary landscape. The poet, known for his evocative and thought-provoking verses, had a profound impact on Odia literature and was widely recognized for his skill in weaving intricate thoughts and emotions into his poetry.
He was honored with several prestigious awards throughout his career, with the Padma Bhushan, one of the highest civilian honors in India, being one of the most notable accolades he received for his exceptional contribution to literature and the arts. In addition to his literary career, Rath had an illustrious career as a civil servant, which added another layer of admiration to his public life.
Rath is survived by his three daughters and a son, who are now left to cherish his memory and legacy. The passing of the poet marks the end of an era in Odia literature, one that will be remembered for the profound impact of his words, his passion for his culture, and his relentless pursuit of excellence in the realm of poetry.
