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Binod Pasayat, a distinguished Sambalpuri litterateur, passed away at 89 in Sambalpur after a long illness. He was a Padma Shri awardee who made significant contributions to Sambalpuri language and performing arts. Despite national acclaim, he remained humble and connected to his roots as a community member. His legacy in regional literature and music will be remembered as a profound cultural contribution.

Key Points: Binod Pasayat Padma Shri Litterateur Dies at 89

  • Padma Shri awardee who championed Sambalpuri language and culture
  • Authored numerous songs and plays in regional dialect
  • Passed away after prolonged battle with prostate cancer
  • Received national recognition while remaining deeply connected to community
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Renowned litterateur and Padma Shri awardee Binod Pasayat dies at 89

Renowned Sambalpuri writer and Padma Shri awardee Binod Pasayat passes away in Sambalpur, leaving behind a rich literary legacy

"He was a silent devotee. His contributions to the world of Sambalpuri literature will remain forever memorable. - Dharmendra Pradhan"

Bhubaneswar, Aug 20

Renowned litterateur and Padma Shri awardee Binod Pasayat passed away in Odisha's Sambalpur on Wednesday at the age of 89.

He breathed his last while undergoing treatment at Sambalpur District Headquarters Hospital. Pasayat had been suffering from prostate cancer for a long time.

His health condition worsened on Wednesday morning following which he was admitted to the hospital, where he breathed his last.

Born on December 3, 1935, in Kusmel village of Balangir district, Pasayat made remarkable contributions to Sambalpuri language and literature.

He also authored several songs and plays in Sambalpuri.

In January 2023, he was conferred the Padma Shri by the government of India for his excellence in the field of performing arts, especially for his work in "Giti Natya" (musical plays).

Union Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan condoled his demise in a post on X, calling it an irreparable loss to Odisha's literary and cultural world.

Expressing grief, Dharmendra Pradhan wrote on X: "I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear the news of the passing of Padmashree Binod Kumar Pasayat, the distinguished playwright, poet, and writer from Sambalpur. For decades, he made invaluable contributions to Sambalpuri literature and music, bringing pride to our state. He was a silent devotee. His contributions to the world of Sambalpuri literature will remain forever memorable. Praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul, I extend my condolences to the bereaved family."

Later, on Wednesday evening, Pasayat's mortal remains were taken to Rajghat in Sambalpur where the district administration accorded him a Guard of Honour before the final rites were performed.

Speaking of the loss, his elder son Biswajit Pasayat expressed deep grief and recalled his father's lifelong dedication to Sambalpuri literature and culture.

Though he gained national recognition, he chose to remain a barber, deeply connected to his community.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Amazing how he remained a barber despite national recognition. True humility and connection to roots. This is what real greatness looks like - not chasing fame but serving your art and community.
A
Ananya R
His Giti Natya works brought Sambalpuri culture to the national stage. We need to ensure his legacy continues through proper documentation and promotion of regional languages. 🎭
S
Sarah B
While his contributions are celebrated, it's sad that many such regional artists only get recognition late in life or after passing. We need better support systems for folk artists during their lifetime.
V
Vikram M
Om Shanti. His work in preserving our cultural heritage is invaluable. Hope the government and cultural organizations take steps to digitize and archive his contributions for future generations.
K
Karthik V
From Kusmel village to Padma Shri - what an incredible journey! His life story should be included in school curricula to inspire young Indians about preserving local cultures and languages.

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