Cuttack: Dipak Samantrai, former Director of the National Academy of Broadcasting and Multimedia (NABM), noted author and Convener of Cuttack Heritage Walks (CHW), passed away at his parental residence on Rovers’ Street in Cuttack following a prolonged illness. He was 69.
A distinguished broadcaster, poet, writer and heritage enthusiast, Samantrai is survived by his wife and daughter. His death has left a void in Cuttack’s literary, broadcasting and heritage circles.
Born on July 22, 1957, Samantrai had a long association with broadcasting and received several National Awards and recognition from Prasar Bharati. He was also honoured with the Best Trainer Award by All India Radio (Akashvani) on two occasions.
An accomplished writer, he authored three collections of Odia poetry, including an Odia translation of selected poems by eminent bilingual poet Jayanta Mahapatra. His literary contribution also included three prose books, among them collections of motivational essays. A keen photographer, he held a solo exhibition of his photographs at several locations across Odisha during 1990-91.
Samantrai held a PhD from Berhampur University for his research on radio programme production. He served on the boards of studies of several universities and institutions across the country and was a visiting faculty member in Journalism and Mass Communication.
A new identity through Cuttack Heritage Walks
While he made his mark in broadcasting and literature, Samantrai became widely known in Cuttack for his efforts to promote the city’s rich heritage. He led the Cuttack chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and served as the Convener of Cuttack Heritage Walks.
Following the success of Ekamra Walks in Bhubaneswar in 2016, Barabati Beckons became the first heritage walk under CHW. With strong community participation and Samantrai at the helm, the initiative gradually expanded to cover the many dimensions of Cuttack’s history and culture.
Under his leadership, the walks explored the city’s judicial heritage, Barabati Fort, maritime history, churches, museums, libraries, Durga Puja traditions, silver filigree, temples and educational institutions. Even the city’s popular Dahibara-Aloodum found a place in its heritage narrative.
His association with Jayanta Mahapatra, one of the leading voices in Indian English poetry and a fellow native of Cuttack, was another important aspect of his literary journey.
Family donates his body to SCB Medical College
In accordance with Samantrai’s wishes, his family donated his body to the Anatomy Department of SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack. The body will be used for the education and research of medical students.
Following news of his demise, members of Cuttack Heritage Walks, friends, followers and well-wishers gathered at his Rovers’ Street residence to pay their respects. People from different walks of life visited the house, reflecting the wide regard he commanded in the city.
