Bhubaneswar: Ratikant Mohanty, a towering figure in the Odia press and a respected name in the Odisha media landscape, passed away on Saturday morning, leaving behind a rich legacy of integrity, dedication and guidance.
He was 70 years old at the time. His wife Sipra Mohanty and two daughters Puja and Bandana survived.
Mohanty has been ill in the past few months and is receiving medical services.
Over the past few decades, Mohanti has left an indelible mark in the press. He lent his voice to several major Odia publications including the famous platform of the British Daily, the Asian Times, the Indus Valley Times, and Denalipi and Paribeckshaq. He is also closely related to Hindusthan Samachar, a respected news agency.
Ratikant Mohanty is known for his unwavering standards of honesty and moral journalism, not only a journalist of truth, but also a mentor to many. He played a key role in cultivating and shaping the careers of numerous young journalists, providing brilliant examples of guidance, encouragement and professional behavior.
Mohanty is affectionately known as “Rati Bhai” within the Media Brotherhood and is respected in all parts of society. His work made him admire politicians, bureaucrats and ordinary people. Besides journalism, he is known for his deep spirituality, often spending time in local temples and talking to saints and saints.
He is a compassionate soul and determined social activist who never refuses anyone in need. Even strangers found a ready-made listener and a willing assistant in him, making him the hope of many.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said: “Ratikant Mohanty’s life proves the power of principle journalism. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of media professionals to uphold truth, integrity and compassion in their work.”
Two deputy chief ministers of Odisha, KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and many other leaders begged Mohanty’s death.
