Legendary Odia Singer Geeta Patnaik Passes Away at 73

Veteran Odia singer Geeta Patnaik passed away on February 15, 2026, in Cuttack at the age of 73. She was undergoing treatment at a private hospital after suffering a brain stroke. According to family members, Patnaik fell ill while attending an event earlier in the week and was initially admitted to Capital Hospital. Medical tests confirmed a brain stroke, after which she was shifted to a private hospital in Cuttack, where doctors declared her dead on Sunday evening.

Who Was Geeta Patnaik?

• Geeta Patnaik was one of the most celebrated playback singers in Odia music. With a career spanning several decades, she became a household name in Odisha for her melodious and expressive voice.
• She contributed immensely to Odia films, devotional songs, and modern music albums.
• Her voice carried emotional depth and classical training, which made her stand out during the golden era of Odia cinema.
• She represented a generation of singers who shaped regional music before the digital age transformed the industry.

A Voice That Defined Odia Music for Decades

• Geeta Patnaik was regarded as one of the most iconic voices in the Odia music industry.
• Her career spanned several decades, during which she lent her voice to numerous popular Odia songs that remain cherished by listeners.
• She frequently collaborated with legendary Odia singer Akshaya Mohanty, creating timeless musical pieces that shaped Odisha’s cultural landscape.

Popular Songs and Film Contributions

• Among her many memorable songs, one of the most celebrated is ‘Phur Kina Udigala Bani’ from the Odia film Jajabar.
• Her soulful renditions and emotional depth made her songs resonate across generations.
• She became a household name in Odisha, admired for her classical grounding and expressive singing style.

Impact on Odia Culture and Music

• Geeta Patnaik was more than just a playback singer; she was a cultural icon.
• Her songs reflected the soul of Odisha blending tradition with modern musical expressions.
• She represented the emotional richness of Odia literature and cinema.
• Her passing marks the end of a golden chapter in Odia music.
• Artists and political leaders across Odisha have paid tribute to her immense contribution. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers.

Question

Q. Geeta Patnaik was associated with which field?

A) Classical Dance
B) Odia Music
C) Theatre Direction
D) Painting