Renowned Odia poet and former bureaucrat Ramakanta Rath passed away on March 16, 2025, at the age of 90. His demise marks the end of an era in Odia literature, leaving behind a treasure trove of poetry that continues to inspire generations. For lovers of Indian literature, this loss feels deeply personal. Rath wasn’t just a poet; he was a visionary who redefined how poetry could express human emotions, mythology, and contemporary dilemmas.
A Life Dedicated to Literature and Service
Born on December 13, 1934, in Cuttack, Odisha, Ramakanta Rath had an extraordinary life that balanced literature and administrative service. He pursued his master’s degree in English Literature from Ravenshaw College and later joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1957.
Imagine this: A man of poetry navigating the bureaucratic corridors of power, working tirelessly in administration by day and weaving poetic magic by night. It’s fascinating how he managed both roles with such grace. His tenure as Chief Secretary of Odisha saw him making impactful decisions, but his heart always belonged to poetry.
Even after retiring in 1992, he remained deeply involved in literary circles, mentoring young poets and contributing to the evolution of modern Odia poetry. Rath’s ability to seamlessly blend his literary mind with his administrative acumen is what made him truly unique.
The Literary Genius
If you’ve ever read ‘Sri Radha’, you’ll know exactly why Rath is considered a master of modern Odia poetry. This isn’t just another poetic retelling of mythology—it’s a deep, introspective journey into Radha’s mind. He portrayed her not merely as a divine consort but as a woman full of emotions, conflicts, and profound longing.
For many, ‘Sri Radha’ was an eye-opener. It showed how poetry could be both deeply personal and universally relevant at the same time. His ability to bring mythical characters into modern contexts made his work timeless. This masterpiece won him the Saraswati Samman in 1992 and remains one of the most influential poetic works in Odia literature.
But ‘Sri Radha’ was just the tip of the iceberg. His other notable poetry collections include:
- Kete Dinara
- Sandigdha Mrugaya
- Saptama Ritu
- Sachitra Andhara
What set Rath apart was his ability to combine tradition with modern thought. His poems often carried themes of existentialism, human suffering, and philosophical questioning—all while maintaining a uniquely Odia essence.
If you’ve never read his poetry, let me tell you, it’s never too late to start. His words have a way of speaking to you, no matter where you are in life. That’s the magic of Ramakanta Rath.
Honors and Recognition
For a man of such literary genius, it’s no surprise that Rath was showered with accolades throughout his lifetime. Here are just a few of the honors that celebrated his incredible contributions:
- Padma Bhushan (2006) – India’s third-highest civilian award
- Saraswati Samman (1992) for ‘Sri Radha’
- Sahitya Akademi Award (1977)
- President of Sahitya Akademi (1998-2003)
Beyond awards, his true reward lay in the admiration of his readers. Many poets and literary scholars credit him with shaping modern Odia literature in a way no one else did.
A Loss That Feels Personal
When news of Rath’s passing broke, tributes poured in from across the country. President Droupadi Murmu and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed their condolences, recognizing his profound impact on literature and culture.
But beyond official statements, his loss feels personal to so many of us who grew up reading his words. For literature lovers, it’s like losing a mentor—a silent companion whose words provided comfort, inspiration, and sometimes even the right questions to ask about life.
His last rites were performed at Swargadwar in Puri, a place deeply significant in Odisha’s spiritual and cultural history. As flames rose to bid him a final farewell, one couldn’t help but think—Rath’s body may have turned to ashes, but his words will remain immortal.
Ramakanta Rath’s Enduring Legacy
What makes an artist truly immortal? It’s not just their awards or public recognition—it’s the way their work continues to influence and inspire generations. And Ramakanta Rath’s poetry does exactly that.
Even today, young poets look up to him for his daring innovation, his willingness to question tradition, and his ability to infuse modern sensibilities into age-old themes. His impact isn’t just limited to Odia literature; his translated works have found a place in the hearts of readers across the world.
If you’re someone who has never read Ramakanta Rath’s poetry, now might be the perfect time. Pick up ‘Sri Radha’ or any of his works, and immerse yourself in a world of profound emotions, lyrical beauty, and philosophical depth.
Because poets like Rath don’t really die, they live on in every line they’ve ever written, waiting for someone new to discover their magic.
Ramakanta Rath was more than just a poet—he was a force of nature in Indian literature. His words, filled with emotion and introspection, will continue to echo through time, reminding us of the power of poetry to move hearts and minds.
As we bid farewell to this literary giant, let’s remember him not with sorrow, but with gratitude—for the beauty, wisdom, and depth he brought into our lives.
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Rest in peace, Ramakanta Rath. Your words will live forever.
FAQs
1. Who was Ramakanta Rath?
Ramakanta Rath was a celebrated Odia poet and former Chief Secretary of Odisha, known for his literary masterpiece Sri Radha and his significant contributions to modern Odia poetry.
2. What are some of Ramakanta Rath’s most famous works?
Some of his renowned poetry collections include Sri Radha, Kete Dinara, Sandigdha Mrugaya, Saptama Ritu, and Sachitra Andhara.
3. What awards did Ramakanta Rath receive for his literary contributions?
He was honored with the Padma Bhushan (2006), Saraswati Samman (1992), and the Sahitya Akademi Award (1977), among others.
4. Where can I read Ramakanta Rath’s poetry?
His works are available in bookstores, libraries, and online platforms. Many of his poems have been translated into English and other languages, making them accessible to a global audience.
