Bhubaneswar, 20 August (H.S.): Renowned Sambalpuri lyricist, playwright, and Padma Shri awardee Binod Kumar Pasayat passed away on Wednesday while undergoing treatment at the District Headquarters Hospital in Sambalpur, Odisha. He was 89.
Pasayat had been unwell for the past two days and was initially being treated at home. However, his condition worsened on Wednesday, prompting his family to rush him to the hospital, where he later breathed his last during treatment.
Binod Kumar Pasayat was a towering figure in Sambalpuri literature and music. Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2024, his contributions have left an indelible mark on Odisha’s cultural landscape.
He was best known for penning several iconic Sambalpuri songs, many of which have become timeless hits. His most celebrated compositions include “Hai Krushna Hai Krushna Boli Jaa Mora Jibana,” “E Nani Sulochana,” “Rathar Chaka Chale Ghidighidi,” and “Bajuche Madala Ae Baula Kurei Phula.” He also wrote playback songs for popular Odia films such as “Samarpan” and “Para Stri.”
Beyond music, Pasayat was a prolific playwright and contributed immensely to Sambalpuri theatre. Some of his acclaimed dramas include “Ukhi,” “Mui Nai Mare,” “Lita,” “Chinha,” and “Bharna.”
Born on December 3, 1935, in Kusmel village of Balangir district, Pasayat later moved to Tikra Pada in Balangir town. In 1953, he relocated to Sambalpur, which remained his home thereafter. He was a recognized artist of All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan, where much of his early work gained widespread recognition. His breakthrough came with the devotional Sambalpuri bhajan “Hai Krishna Hai Krishna Boli,” which earned him immense popularity across the state.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
