Former Odisha Minister Damburudhar Majhi Passes Away at 86

Bhubaneswar, India Aug 30, 2026 ALN: Bhubaneswar: Veteran politician and former Odisha minister Damburudhar Majhi breathed his last on Sunday morning while undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the District Headquarters Hospital in Nabarangpur. He was 86.

Majhi was hospitalised after suffering from prolonged age-related health ailments, which had become increasingly severe in recent months. His passing marks the end of an era in Odisha politics, where he was a prominent figure for several decades.

Born into a politically active family, Damburudhar Majhi's early life was steeped in the socio-political dynamics of Odisha. He pursued education in the region, which laid the foundation for his later political career. His initial foray into politics began with the Swatantra Party, a party that emerged in the 1960s advocating for individual liberties and free-market principles. The Swatantra Party was crucial in shaping the political landscape of Odisha during its formative years, and Majhi's election to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 1967 as a Swatantra Party candidate from Dabugam is a testament to his early commitment to public service.

Throughout his legislative career, spanning over two decades from 1967 to 1990, Majhi was elected four times to the Odisha Legislative Assembly, representing both the Dabugam constituency (formerly known as Kodigan) and the Kodinga Assembly constituency. His ability to retain his seat in the assembly, particularly in the 1971 elections, demonstrated his strong connection with the electorate and his understanding of the regional issues that resonated with his constituents.

In 1980, Majhi made a significant political shift by aligning with the Indian National Congress (I), one of India's oldest political parties, which has played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. This transition allowed him to win the Kodinga seat and later return to represent Dabugam for Congress in 1985. His tenure in the state cabinet across four terms was marked by his contributions to various key portfolios, including Transport, Finance, and Culture. These roles enabled him to influence significant policy decisions and development initiatives in Odisha.

Majhi's political journey reflects the dynamic nature of Indian politics, where alliances and party affiliations can significantly impact a politician's career. Over the years, he adapted to changing political landscapes, aligning with multiple parties including the Swatantra Party, Indian National Congress, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This adaptability is indicative of a politician who was not only aware of the shifting tides of public sentiment but also willing to embrace change for the sake of his political survival and continued influence.

In 2009, he contested the Nabarangpur Lok Sabha parliamentary seat on a BJD ticket. However, he faced defeat, which marked a turning point in his political trajectory. Despite this setback, he remained active in public life, continuing to engage with constituents and participate in political discourse. In October 2018, he formally severed his decades-long tie with the BJD to join the BJP, reflecting a broader trend of political realignment in Odisha and across India. This shift was significant as it illustrated the ongoing transformations within the political fabric of the state, particularly as the BJP sought to strengthen its foothold in Odisha.

Majhi's passing has elicited a wave of condolences from various quarters, with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi expressing deep sorrow over his demise. The Chief Minister offered condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to Lord Shri Jagannath for the peaceful repose of the departed soul. This expression of grief underscores the respect and recognition Majhi garnered throughout his political career, regardless of party affiliations.

In the wake of his death, there is a palpable sense of loss among his supporters and colleagues, who remember him not just as a politician, but as a dedicated public servant who devoted his life to the betterment of his community. His contributions to the state’s political landscape will be remembered, and his legacy will likely influence future generations of politicians and public servants in Odisha.

The implications of his passing extend beyond personal loss; they also highlight the evolving nature of political representation in Odisha. As veteran politicians like Majhi exit the stage, there is an opportunity for new leaders to emerge, potentially reshaping the political discourse in the state. This transition may lead to shifts in policy priorities, party dynamics, and voter engagement in the coming years. The political landscape of Odisha, already marked by a rich history of diverse political movements and parties, is poised for further transformation as it navigates the future without the influence of stalwarts like Damburudhar Majhi.