Santosh Kumar Barajena, popularly known as Babuni and revered as the “Ironman of Odisha,” tragically passed away today following a road accident near Daya Bridge.
A resident of Nuagaon near Bhubaneswar, Babuni was just 38 years old at the time of his death.
Renowned for his achievements in national and international bodybuilding competitions, Babuni had earned immense respect and admiration across Odisha. His sudden demise has left the fitness and sports community in mourning.
Following the news of his passing, several prominent figures including MLA Ananta Narayan Jena, former minister Suresh Kumar Routray, Ashok Chandra Panda, corporator Shib Behera, and Zilla Parishad member Subash Sundaray visited to pay their last respects.
In a noble gesture, Babuni’s eyes were donated as per his wishes. His final rites were performed in his native village, with his younger brothers, youth leaders Dr. Chinmayananda Barajena and Pinaki Barajena, lighting the funeral pyre.
His legacy as a disciplined athlete and inspiring figure will continue to motivate generations of bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts in Odisha and beyond.
