Bhubaneswar, Apr 1: Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday expressed deep grief over the demise of popular Odia bhajan singer Santilata Barik Chhotray.

“Saddened to learn about the passing away of renowned Odia bhajan singer Santilata Barik Chhotray. Her songs had a passion of spirituality and a sense of devotion. Through music, she connected people with Lord Shree Jagannath and the culture of Odisha. Her demise is an irreparable loss to the music industry. Sincere condolences to the bereaved family. May her departed soul rest in peace. Om Shanti,” Pradhan posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Popular Odia bhajan singer Santilata Barik Chhotray passed away at a private hospital here in Odisha on Monday.

Santilata had been suffering from health-related complications since the last few months, family sources said.

The singer has lent her voice to a large number of Odia Bhajan songs, including ‘Jagannath tume bada chhalia’, ‘Thaka Mana Chala Jiba’, ‘Mun je Deula Bedha’, and 'Kaaliare'.

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