Ramakanta Rath, a celebrated modernist poet in Odia literature, is known for blending traditional techniques with modernist free verse to create a distinctive style that bridges cultural heritage and contemporary thought
OdishaPlus Bureau
The death of Ramakanta Rath, a provocative figure in contemporary Odia poetry, has left a considerable gap in the literary landscape. He was one of the last three distinguished voices in Odia poetry, alongside Sitakanta Mohapatra and Rajendra Kishore Panda. Born on December 13, 1934, in Cuttack, Ramakanta was a prominent modernist poet in Odia literature. He obtained his Master’s degree in English Literature from Ravenshaw College and entered the IAS in 1957, eventually retiring as the Chief Secretary of Odisha. His work was significantly shaped by the influences of poets such as T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound, often delving into themes of mysticism, mortality, and human isolation.
Ramakanta Rath’s contributions have profoundly impacted modern Odia literature in various ways. He brought modernist themes and styles to Odia poetry, drawing significant inspiration from Western poets such as T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound. His examination of topics like the search for the mystical, the concepts of life and death, and the experience of inner solitude facilitated a transition in Odia poetry towards more contemporary and universal themes.
Rath’s poetry is marked by symbolic references to spiritual and metaphysical dimensions of existence, which enhanced the intellectual richness of Odia literature. This methodology enabled readers to engage with intricate philosophical concepts through poetry. Rath adeptly fused traditional Odia meter and techniques with modernist free verse, resulting in a distinctive style that honors cultural heritage while embracing modern influences. Rath’s poetry is noted for its somber tone and symbolic references to the spiritual and metaphysical dimensions of existence.
His significant literary contributions include ‘Kete Dinara’ (1962), ‘Aneka Kothari’ (1967), ‘Sandigdha Mrigaya’ (1971), ‘Saptama Ritu’ (1977), ‘Sachitra Andhara’ (1982), ‘Sri Radha’ (1984), and ‘Sri Palataka’ (1997). Rath was honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1977, the Saraswati Samman in 1992 for ‘Sri Radha,’ the Bishuva Samman in 1990, and the Padma Bhushan in 2006. He also received the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship in 2009 before which he was the vice-president of the Akademi.
Rath is particularly celebrated for his lengthy poem, ‘Sri Radha’, in which he reimagines Radha, freeing her from theological limitations and depicting her as a remarkable character who embodies deep emotions, love, defiance, and resilience. This poem uniquely intertwines themes of erotic love with existential introspection. This notable work initiated a new trend in Odia poetry that echoed the confessional styles of poets like Sylvia Plath, infusing a personal and introspective quality into Odia literature.
Ramakanta Rath’s poetry is also marked by irony and wit, which adds complexity and depth to his work. Critics note that his use of irony can be challenging to interpret, reflecting the complexity of his poetic vision. His unique style and thematic inquiries have motivated a new generation of Odia poets, playing a crucial role in the advancement of modern Odia literature. Rath’s legacy has been instrumental in shaping the contemporary landscape of Odia poetry, establishing him as a legendary figure in modern Indian literature. His passing signifies the conclusion of a significant era in Odia literary history.
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