Ramakanta Rath, one of the most celebrated voices in modern Odia poetry and a recipient of the prestigious Padma Bhushan award, passed away early Sunday morning at his home in Kharavela Nagar, Bhubaneswar. He was 90 years old.
Born on December 13, 1934, in Cuttack, Rath pursued his passion for literature alongside an accomplished administrative career. He earned a master’s degree in English from Ravenshaw University and later joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1957. Over the years, he held several significant roles in both the Odisha state administration and the Central Government, ultimately retiring as the Chief Secretary of Odisha.
Despite his demanding career in civil service, Rath never strayed from his love for poetry. His profound and thought-provoking works earned him numerous literary accolades, including the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1977, the Bishuva Samman in 1990, the Saraswati Samman in 1992, and the Padma Bhushan in 2006—one of India’s highest civilian honors.
Beyond his poetry, he also played a crucial role in shaping India’s literary landscape. He served as the Vice President of the Sahitya Akademi of India from 1993 to 1998, later leading the institution as its President from 1998 to 2003. His contributions were further recognized in 2009 when he was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, making him only the fifth Odia writer to receive this prestigious honor.
Rath’s poetry is known for its deep introspection, existential themes, and striking imagery. His most celebrated works include Sri Radha, a masterpiece that explores themes of longing and death-consciousness, along with other notable collections like Saptama Ritu (The Seventh Season), Kete Dinara (Of a Long Long Time, 1962), Aneka Kothari (Many Rooms, 1967), Sandigdha Mrigaya (Suspicious Hunting, 1971), and Sachitra Andhara (Picturesque Darkness, 1982).
His passing marks the end of an era in Odia literature. The literary world mourns the loss of a visionary poet whose words continue to inspire generations.
