Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s sister and eminent author Gita Mehta, 80, passes away

By Sukant Mohanty

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 17: Noted writer and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s elder sister Gita Mehta passed away at her New Delhi residence late on Friday evening.

She was 80.

Daughter of legendary leader and former Odisha CM Biju Patnaik, Gita Mehta was an eminent author, documentary filmmaker, and journalist.

She was married to renowned American publisher late Sonny Mehta.

Condolences poured in after the news of her demise.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and said, “I am saddened by the passing away of noted writer Smt. Gita Mehta Ji. She was a multifaceted personality, known for her intellect and passion towards writing as well as filmmaking. She was also passionate about nature and water conservation. My thoughts are with Naveen Patnaik Ji and the entire family in this hour of grief.”

BJP National Vice President, Baijayant Panda took to his X handle and expressed grief over Gita Mehta’s demise.

“Having been close family friends, I recall her wit and intelligence as a great raconteur and along with her late husband, publishing titan Sonny Mehta, her many kindnesses and wonderful hospitality. A charismatic, opinionated, feisty personality, she will be greatly missed. With deepest condolences to the family and prayers for the departed soul,” Baijayant Panda’s post read.

Odisha Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal also expressed his condolences on the demise and ‘conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends.’

Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan extended his condolences on his X handle.

“Saddened to hear about the passing away of Gita Mehta ji, a prominent author. This is a major loss to the literary and cultural world. Sincere condolences to Hon. CM Odisha and family. Pray to Almighty to give strength to his family and friends to bear this loss,” Pradhan posted on his X handle.

Born in 1943 to Biju and Gyan Patnaik in Delhi, Gita Mehta pursued her education in India and the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Her books include Karma Cola, Snakes and Ladders, A River Sutra, Raj and The Eternal Ganesha.

CM Naveen Patnaik on Sunday left for new Delhi to attend the last rites of Gita.