Jayanta Mahapatra, one of India’s best known English poets, passed away in the State-run SCB Medical College Hospital, Cuttack on August 27.
Mr. Mahapatra, who was 95, was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the SCB Medical College Hospital for ill-health for several days. “He was admitted to hospital due to pneumonia and kidney ailment on August 4. He had recovered from first cardiac arrest. Sunday’s heart stroke proved fatal,” said Jayanta Panda, physician who was overseeing his treatment.
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The legendary poet has left an imprint in the Indian English poetry with his writings spanning over 50 years.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep grief and sorrow over the passing away of the renowned poet. Mr. Patnaik said the poet was a genius writer in both English and Odia literature.
“The poet had successfully elevated the reach of Odia literature to a wider circle. His intellect and knowledge was a guiding spirit for many youngsters to write in English literature. His mellifluous words will continue to weave their magic reminding us of the power of human expression. The vivid imagery of his writings about daily life, particularly drawn from Cuttack, will always remain a rich encapsulation of Odia life”, said the Chief Minister. According to the State government, the poet would be cremated with full State honours on Monday.
Mr. Mahapatra, a physics teacher, fell in love with English poetry in his late 30s. After publishing of his first collection ‘Swayamvara and Other Poems’ in 1971, he never looked back. His poetries ‘Close the Sky Ten by Ten’ catapulted him to the top league of writers.
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He was conferred Sahitya Akademi Award for his poem Relationship in 1981, a rare recognition for an Indian English writer. He was awarded Padma Shri in 2015. He, however, offered to return the award protesting rising level of intolerance in the country. Mr. Mahapatra received recognition in India and abroad for his brilliant writing.
