Bhubaneswar: The funeral rites of renowned Odia poet and Padma Bhushan awardee Ramakanta Rath will be performed today with full state honours at Swargadwar in Puri.
As per reports, the mortal remains of Rath, who passed away at the age of 91, will be taken to Puri Swargadwar for cremation, where the last rites will be performed with full state honours.
Rath was a celebrated figure in Odia literature, known for his thought-provoking and emotionally charged poetry. His works had a profound impact on Odia literature, introducing a new wave of modernism. One of his most iconic poems is Sri Radha which is considered a masterpiece of Odia literature.
The literary world has mourned the loss of Rath, with many paying tribute at his Kharavel Nagar-based residence in Bhubaneswar. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of writers and poets.
Notably, he was honoured with the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship by the Central Sahitya Akademi, becoming the fifth Odia writer to receive this prestigious recognition.