Bhubaneswar: Celebrated Odia poet and former IAS officer Ramakanta Rath passed away at the age of 90 in Bhubaneswar, leaving behind an extraordinary literary and administrative legacy.
Born on December 13, 1934, in Cuttack, Rath pursued a master’s degree in English Literature from Ravenshaw University. He joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1957 and held several key positions, including Chief Secretary of Odisha, before retiring in 1992. Despite his distinguished career in bureaucracy, his passion for poetry remained steadfast.
A Modernist Voice in Odia Poetry
Rath was a pioneering figure in Odia literature, known for his modernist and philosophical approach to poetry. His notable works include Kete Dinara (1962), Sandigdha Mrugaya (1971), Saptama Rutu (1977), Sachitra Andhara (1982), Sri Radha (1985), and Sreshtha Kavita (1992). His magnum opus, Sri Radha, earned him the prestigious Saraswati Samman in 1992. His poetry has been widely translated into English and several Indian languages, expanding his influence beyond Odisha.
A Life Honored with Prestigious Awards
Rath’s contributions to Indian literature were widely recognized. He received numerous accolades, including the Sahitya Akademi Award (1977), Sarala Award (1984), Bishuva Samman (1990), and the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship (2009). In 2006, he was conferred with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his outstanding contribution to literature.
A Leader in India’s Literary Landscape
Beyond his literary achievements, Rath played a crucial role in shaping India’s literary institutions. He served as the Vice President of the Sahitya Akademi from 1993 to 1998 and later as its President from 1998 to 2003. His leadership further strengthened the institution’s role in promoting literature across the country.
A Lasting Legacy
Rath’s passing marks the end of an era in Odia literature. His profound words and poetic vision continue to inspire generations of writers and readers. His loss leaves an irreplaceable void, but his legacy will endure through his timeless poetry.
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