CM Condoles Death, Declares state funeral .
Bhubaneswar: Padmashree Jayant Mohapatra No More . The eminent scholar , great poet Padma awardee Sri Mahapatra breathed his last today while being treated in SCB Medical College . Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep grief and sorrow on the passing away of renowned author and poet Padmashree Jayant Mohapatra.
He was the first Indian poet to win a Sahitya Akademi award for English poetry. He authored poems such as ‘Indian Summer’ and ‘Hunger’, which are regarded as classics in modern Indian English literature. Sri Mahapatra was conferred the Padma Shri in 2009 for his contribution to literature.
In a message, the Chief Minister has described him as a legendary author and poet, who was a genius in both English and Odia literature. He 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 ,the CM added.
The CM has announced that the late poet will be cremated with full state honours tomorrow. The CM has wished peace and tranquility for the departed soul and expressed his deep sympathies for the family members.
Minister Food Supplies , Consumer Welfare & Co-operation and Higher Education Sri Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak has expressed heart felt condolences on the sad demise of Sri Mohapatra. In a condolence message Sri Nayak says “Famous Indo-anglican Odia poet Padma shree Jayant Mohapatra passed away while undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College Hospital, Cuttack. He was the pride of Odisha to be the first Indian poet to have been honoured with Sahitya Academy Award for English Poetry. My heart felt condolences to the departed soul,”
