What Legacy Does Renowned Litterateur Binod Pasayat Leave Behind?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Binod Pasayat was a pivotal figure in Sambalpuri literature.
- He authored numerous plays and songs that enriched the cultural landscape.
- Recipient of the Padma Shri in 2023 for his artistic contributions.
- His legacy will inspire future generations of artists and writers.
- He maintained strong ties with his community, choosing to live a humble life.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 20 (NationPress) Binod Pasayat, a celebrated litterateur and recipient of the Padma Shri, has passed away at the age of 89 in Sambalpur, Odisha, on Wednesday. He succumbed while receiving treatment at the Sambalpur District Headquarters Hospital, after battling prostate cancer for an extended period.
His health deteriorated on Wednesday morning, necessitating hospital admission, where he ultimately passed away.
Born on December 3, 1935, in Kusmel village, Balangir district, Pasayat significantly enriched the Sambalpuri language and literature.
He was also the author of numerous songs and plays in Sambalpuri.
In January 2023, he received the Padma Shri from the Government of India, recognizing his remarkable contributions to performing arts, particularly in the realm of “Giti Natya” (musical plays).
Union Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan expressed his condolences on X, describing Pasayat's passing as an immeasurable loss to Odisha's literary and cultural landscape.
Pradhan conveyed his sorrow, stating: "I am profoundly saddened by the loss of Padmashree Binod Kumar Pasayat, a distinguished playwright, poet, and writer from Sambalpur. His invaluable contributions to Sambalpuri literature and music have brought immense pride to our state. A humble devotee, his legacy in Sambalpuri literature will be cherished forever. I offer my prayers for the eternal peace of his soul and extend my condolences to his family."
On Wednesday evening, Pasayat's remains were taken to Rajghat in Sambalpur, where the district administration honored him with a Guard of Honour before the final rites.
His elder son, Biswajit Pasayat, shared his profound grief and reflected on his father’s unwavering commitment to Sambalpuri literature and culture.
Despite achieving national recognition, Pasayat chose to remain a barber, maintaining a strong connection to his community.