Cuttack, Feb 16 : The Geeta Patnaik death has left Odisha’s music fraternity in mourning, marking the end of an era defined by her soulful voice and timeless melodies. The veteran singer passed away on Sunday at the age of 73 following a brain stroke, her family confirmed.
Hospitalised After Sudden Illness
Patnaik reportedly fell ill during an event in Cuttack on Thursday and was rushed to Capital Hospital. Medical tests confirmed she had suffered a brain stroke. As her condition deteriorated, she was shifted to a private hospital for advanced treatment. Despite intensive medical care, doctors declared her brain dead on Sunday, according to her brother in law Pradosh Patnaik.
Tributes Pour In
Condolences poured in from political leaders and cultural figures across the state. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described her passing as an “irreplaceable loss” to the state’s cultural heritage. Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said her melodious voice resonated in every household and would continue to live on through her songs. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also termed her demise a major setback for Odisha’s artistic community.
A Voice That Defined Generations
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Patnaik became one of the most cherished voices in Odia music. She collaborated closely with legendary composer Akshaya Mohanty, creating songs that remain etched in public memory.
Her iconic track “Phur Kina Udigala Bani” from the film Jajabar continues to be celebrated for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance.
Her final rites are scheduled for Monday, with her mortal remains to be taken to her residence in Cuttack for admirers to pay their last respects.