Puri: Ranarnab Deb, younger sibling of Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, breathed his last at a private hospital in Puri late on Sunday. He was 67.
According to sources, Deb, popularly known as the ‘Thata Raja’, died due to cardiac arrest at around 12.30 am after suffering from multiple health issues.
His last rites will be performed at Swargadwar here with full royal ceremonial honours. “Thata Raja” Ranarnaba Deb was a very simple and loving person. He passed away from a cardiac arrest after a prolonged illness. His last rites will be performed at Puri Swargadwar today as per the Hindu rituals,” said a relative.
A senior Shree Jagannath Temple Administration official said that his demise will not affect the Gajapati Maharaj’s ‘seva puja’ during Rath Yatra on June 27
Several dignitaries have expressed grief over Deb’s passing. “I am deeply saddened to hear about the demise of the Thata Raja of Puri, Ranarnab Deb. My condolences to the bereaved family. May Lord Jagannath grant them patience and strength in this hour of unbearable grief. I pray at the feet of Lord Jagannath for the peace and solace of the departed soul,” Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi posted on X.