Popular Odia Bhajan Singer Santilata Barik passed away at the age 65. This unfortunate news of her passing has left her fans and followers heartbroken. Santilata was a household name for bhajans and her songs like, ‘Thaka mana chala jiba’, ‘Bhaji bhaji to nama’, and ‘Jagannatha’ are some of her famous Bhajans.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Governor Raghubar Das offered their condolences on the passing of the singer. In a statement, the Chief Minister described Santilata Barik Chhotray as a devoted follower of Lord Jagannath and a renowned figure for her distinctive rendition of Jagannath bhajans. He expressed that her departure is a significant loss to Odisha’s cultural landscape.
Similarly, the Governor conveyed his message, acknowledging Santilata Barik Chhotray’s substantial contributions to Odia devotional music. He emphasized that she will be fondly remembered for her artistic endeavors and offered prayers for her departed soul.
Santilata Barik Death Reason
Santilata faced ongoing health challenges, having been diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and previously treated at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital in Mumbai. Despite a period of recuperation and medication, her health took a downturn once more in 2022, leading to her readmission to Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital. Following treatment, she returned home in September 2023.
However, her health took a sudden turn for the worse on Monday despite ongoing medication. Rushed to a private hospital by her family, she passed away in the evening.
Her body was brought to her residence in the Kedargouri area of Bhubaneswar. Her final rites are scheduled to take place at Puri Swargadwar today.
Santilata Barik Family
Santilata Barik was survived by her son and husband Basant Chhotray, who also confirmed the news of her demise. Apart from that there’s not much known about her family.
The singer’s academic accomplishments were also remarkable. She was bestowed with the esteemed title of ‘acharya’ by the Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya in Bhubaneswar, underscoring her expertise in her field.
Throughout her musical journey, she was influenced and guided by eminent figures such as Balakrushna Das, Markandeya Mahapatra, Singhari Shyamasundar Kar, and Gopal Panda.
