Padmashri Jitendra Haripal’s Ancestral Home in Ruins

Sambalpur: The ancestral home of Padma Shri Dr. Jitendra Haripal, the iconic voice behind the internationally acclaimed Sambalpuri song ‘Rangabati’, has suffered severe damage due to relentless monsoon rains. The mud-walled structure, located in Stationpada under Ward No. 18 of the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation, is now on the verge of collapse, prompting the veteran folk singer to appeal for administrative support to restore the house that has witnessed his decades-long musical journey.

The structure, a four-room house built on government land, was partially damaged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Limited assistance at the time enabled only minor repairs. However, with the recent week-long spell of heavy rain, the situation has drastically worsened. Large portions of the mud walls have crumbled, rainwater has flooded the interior, and deep cracks have appeared throughout the building. The deteriorating tiled roof poses a significant risk, with fears that it could cave in at any moment.

Due to its location on government land, the house is ineligible for inclusion under housing welfare schemes. Dr. Haripal has therefore urged the district administration to step in with independent support for repairs.

“It’s an extremely old house from my ancestral days. Repairs were long overdue, and now it’s no longer safe to live in,” said Dr. Haripal. He currently resides in a rented two-room house in Jagannath Colony along with his family, while his daughter and son-in-law stay near the dilapidated home.

Speaking to reporters, Dr. Haripal shared that he received word last Thursday from relatives that the house had started collapsing. Upon inspection the following day, he found the condition far worse than expected. The matter has since been brought to the attention of Sambalpur District Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondre.

Responding to the situation, the District Collector acknowledged the issue, stating that as the land does not belong to Dr. Haripal, construction under government housing schemes is not feasible. However, he assured that financial assistance will be extended and that steps will be taken promptly to carry out necessary repairs.

Despite bringing Odisha’s rich folk tradition to the global stage through songs like ‘Rangabati’, Dr. Haripal continues to grapple with economic hardship. His current living conditions underscore the need for greater institutional support for cultural icons and folk artists who have significantly contributed to the state’s artistic heritage.