Berhampur: Noted tribal singer of Odisha Stephen Raith passed away on Monday at the age of 46 following a prolonged illness.
Family sources said the singer had been battling illness for some time. As his condition worsened on Sunday, relatives arranged for his transfer to a higher medical facility in Srikakulam. However, he reportedly breathed his last on the way, leaving family members, admirers and fellow artistes in deep shock.
Widely admired for his contributions to Saora, Santali and regional folk music, he was a native of Baizhal village under Gumma block in Gajapati district. He was regarded as one of the most influential tribal voices of the region. Known for his ability to sing in multiple languages, including Saora, Santali, Odia, Hindi and Assamese, he earned a devoted following across Gajapati, Rayagada and Ganjam districts.
Stephen Raith was best known for blending traditional tribal folk elements with contemporary musical styles. His popular audio-visual productions, including the widely acclaimed “Manahen,” helped promote indigenous languages and preserve the rich cultural heritage of tribal communities. His songs resonated strongly among Adivasi and Christian communities and were celebrated for their themes of faith, identity, nature and community life.
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from cultural organisations, social activists, music lovers and tribal leaders across the region. Many remembered him as a humble artiste whose music served as a bridge between tradition and modernity.
With his passing, Odisha’s tribal music fraternity has lost one of its most cherished voices. Though the singer is no more, his enduring melodies and lifelong dedication to preserving indigenous culture will continue to inspire generations to come.
