The mortal remains of popular music director and composer Swarup Nayak were consigned to flames with full state honour at Satichaura crematorium in Cuttack on Saturday.
Nayak passed away at 76 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital on Friday. He had been battling lung cancer for the past several years.
Many personalities from various fields like art, film, culture, music and politics paid their last respect to the music director at his residence in Cuttack in the morning before his body was taken for last rites to Satichaura crematorium.
Grieving over Nayak’s death, dialogue writer, Bijay Malla, who was present during the cremation, said, “The passing away of Swarup Nayak is a great loss to the Odia film industry. The kind of music Nayak has produced, be it romantic, patriotic or satiric, inspires and encourages a race. His death is also a loss to the Odia race. Nayak’s music was completely different.”
Cuttack Collector Narahari Sethi said, "Nayak has immensely contributed to the world of Odia music and the Odia film industry. He was a great lyricist, music composer and director. For his contribution to the music and film industry, he was given guard of honour on behalf of the state government before cremation.”
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In the 80’s, Nayak was active in Ollywood and carved a niche for himself in the industry with his music.
Apart from composing and music direction, he also played roles in some Odia films. Nayak was known for his musical works in the films like Premi No.1 and I Love You.
Swarup Nayak was conferred the Lifetime Achievement award by the Tarang Cine Productions for his contribution to Odia music.