Sambalpur: Eminent Sambalpuri playwright, poet and lyricist Binod Kumar Pasayat passed away in Odisha’s Sambalpur on Wednesday. He was 89.
According to sources, Pasayat was suffering from age-related ailments and developed complications this morning. He breathed his last while undergoing treatment at Sambalpur Sadar Hospital.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed deep sorrow over passing away of Pasayat. “I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear the news of the passing of Padma Shri Binod Kumar Pasayat, the distinguished playwright, poet, and writer from Sambalpur. For decades, he made invaluable contributions to Sambalpuri literature and music, bringing pride to our state. His contributions to the world of Sambalpuri literature will remain forever memorable. Praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul, I extend my condolences to the bereaved family. Om Shanti,” he posted on X.
THE BARBER-PLAYWRIGHT OF ODISHA
Born on December 3, 1935, in Kusmel village, Balangir district, Pasayat left a lasting legacy in Sambalpuri (Koshali) literature and folk culture. A barber by vocation, he passionately promoted Sambalpuri drama, songs, and poetry. His iconic play “Mui Nai Mare” (I Will Never Die) and around 12 other dramas, along with numerous popular folk songs, brought him widespread acclaim in western Odisha for their simplicity and cultural resonance.
Pasayat’s literary journey began as a child artist with the Ramji Drama Party in Balangir. After relocating to Sambalpur in 1953, he ran a barber shop, which doubled as his creative hub for composing poetry and songs.
He was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2024 for his immense contribution to Sambalpuri/Koshali literature. He also received three most popular state-level honours – Sarala Puraskar in 2008, Odisha Sahitya Akademi Puraskar in 2010 and Sarada Prasanna Samman by Odisha Sangeet Natak Academy in 2019.
Despite having earned such high fame and recognition, Pasayat continued working as a barber, which is the customary trade of his forefathers. He closed his shop due to failing health about two years back.