Legendary Odia singer Geeta Patnaik passes away at 73 after suffering brain stroke last week

Veteran Odia singer Geeta Patnaik passed away on Sunday evening at the age of 73 while undergoing treatment for a brain stroke at a private hospital in Cuttack. Singer Geeta Patnaik was hospitalized after falling ill while attending an event on Thursday. Initially admitted to Capital Hospital in Cuttack, tests confirmed she had suffered a brain stroke. She was later shifted to a private hospital in Cuttack for further treatment. According to her brother-in-law, Pradosh Patnaik, doctors declared her brain dead on Sunday while she was undergoing treatment there.

The singer's mortal remains will be taken to her Cuttack residence on Monday for the last rites.

Geeta’s hits in the industry

Geeta Patnaik enjoyed a distinguished career that spanned more than fifty years. She worked with various artists and musicians, but she was particularly celebrated for her musical collaborations with the iconic Odia singer, Akshaya Mohanty. Her voice graced numerous beloved Odia songs, including the popular "Phur Kina Udigala Bani" from the film Jajabar.

Tributes pour in for the legendary singer

The passing of Geeta Patnaik prompted an outpouring of tributes, not only from the music and entertainment industry but also from prominent figures in Odisha. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik all conveyed their condolences upon her death.

"Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of renowned vocalist Geeta Patnaik. Her departure is an irreplaceable loss to Odisha's music and culture. In this hour of grief, I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members, while praying to Lord Shri Jagannath for the eternal peace of the departed soul," Majhi wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Naveen Patnaik said her melodious voice brought Odia music to every household, and her songs will be remembered forever.

Pradhan added, "I am deeply saddened and heartbroken after hearing the news of the demise of Odisha's renowned vocalist Geeta Patnaik. She had carved a unique identity in the world of Odia music. Her unparalleled contribution to enriching Odisha's art and culture is immeasurable. The magic of her voice will continue to inspire generations to come."