Khariar King Jitamitra Prasad Singh Deo passed away today at the age of 80, drawing heartfelt tributes from various quarters.
According to family sources, Singh Deo felt chest pain around 1:00 pm despite being in stable health earlier in the day. He breathed his last at 1:35 pm. His wife, Rani Rajashree Devi, was present during his final moments.
Singh Deo earned honorary doctorates from Sambalpur University and Tirupati Sanskrit University. He authored 19 volumes on history and archaeology, many of which are used as reference texts in universities across India and abroad. Recognised as a distinguished researcher, he discovered several historic sites in Nuapada district.
His notable works include studies on Yogimath’s prehistoric inscriptions, South Kosal history, Jagannath culture, Upper and Lower Mahanadi civilisation, Ghata Ghummar rock art, Sarbapuria dynasty’s gold coins, copper plates, South Kosal culture, origin of the Jagannath deity, tantric art of Odisha, and modern historical assassinations.
He is survived by two sons and a daughter. Following the coronation of Yuvaraj Deb Deb Singh Deo, the last rites of Jitamitra Prasad Singh Deo will be performed tomorrow at the Nehena River ghat.
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