In the Loving Memory of a Devout Soul : Shri Rabi Narayan Pattnaik

🌼 In the Loving Memory of a Devout Soul: Shri Rabi Narayan Pattnaik 🌼

By Lokanath Mishra

On the sacred day of 10th October 2025, the mortal journey of Shri Rabi Narayan Pattnaik, fondly known as Rabi Pattnaik, came to a peaceful close. A native of Puri, the holy abode of Prabhu Shri Jagannath, he lived a life that reflected humility, devotion, and service — the true essence of a Bhakta’s path.

A Sacred Beginning

Born in 1954 in the revered town of Puri, Rabi Pattnaik was the son of Shri Kasinath Pattnaik and Smt. Bistnu Priya Pattnaik, both deeply devoted to Prabhu Shri Jagannath. Their home in Markandeswar Sahi resonated with prayers, simplicity, and the warmth of faith. The Pattnaik family carried a proud legacy, tracing its roots to the renowned Pattnaik family of Golabai, Khurda—the same lineage that gave Odisha eminent figures like Shri Pathani Pattnaik, Ex-Advocate General Shri Jagannath Pattnaik, and Shri Debi Prasanna Pattnaik.

A Life of Learning and Enterprise

Rabi Pattnaik received his early education in Puri, completing his matriculation in 1971 and graduating from SCS College (Evening), Puri, in 1976. A man of creativity and enterprise, he founded the now-famous Kundhei (Wooden Toy) Factory near Balighat, Puri. His craftsmanship and integrity earned him recognition as a leading industrialist of his time. The wooden toys crafted under his vision were cherished for their quality and artistry, spreading joy among children and art lovers alike.

A Man of Family, Art, and Inspiration

Rabi Pattnaik came from a close-knit and cultured family. He was blessed with three sisters — Budhi Appa, Kuni Appa, and Tika Appa — and a brother, Debuli. His family ties extended to remarkable individuals in education and administration, including Shri Prafulla Pattnaik (an Odisha Sahitya Academy awardee) and Shri Kali Charan Pattnaik (a retired OFS officer).

He was married to Smt. Kabita Pattnaik, a respected retired headmistress. Together, they formed a partnership grounded in simplicity, discipline, and service to society.

In his youth, Rabi Pattnaik was drawn to the charm of Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Indian cinema. He actively participated in cultural events, acting in several plays at Annapurna Rangamanch, Puri. His charismatic presence and organizing skills made him a well-known figure among his peers.

A Devotee’s Journey

After achieving success in business, Rabi Pattnaik gradually turned inward — from the outer world of material creation to the inner world of spiritual realization. He became a true devotee of Prabhu Shri Jagannath, attending Mangal Aarati every morning and evening darshan daily whenever he was in Puri.

He lived by the philosophy of seva (service) and shraddha (faith). He regularly distributed Mahaprasad freely to devotees and helped countless pilgrims arrange accommodation and temple darshan. His home and heart were open to all.

Over time, he extended his spiritual quest beyond Puri, visiting temples across India and Nepal. Inspired by the teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, he followed the principles of Shraddha (faith) and Saburi (patience) with steadfast devotion. His Balighat factory was transformed into a temple, where he installed deities of Prabhu Shri Ram and Shirdi Sai Baba. Every day, Prasad was distributed to devotees — a divine act of service sustained entirely by his own resources and goodwill.

The Pilgrim Who Helped Pilgrims

Rabi Pattnaik’s spiritual service went beyond personal devotion. He guided and supported over two thousand devotees in undertaking pilgrimages across India, including sacred journeys to Puri, Shirdi, and other holy shrines. Many found in him not just a companion, but a mentor — someone who made their spiritual path smoother through compassion, organization, and selfless effort.

His generosity extended beyond religious service; he quietly helped many families financially and emotionally during their times of need. His humility ensured that most of his good deeds remained known only to those he helped.

A Noble Departure

With his passing, Puri has lost not just an industrialist or organizer — but a true servant of the Divine, a soul who lived in devotion and departed in peace. His life reminds us that success attains its true meaning when it transforms into service, and wealth becomes sacred when shared with love.

As his soul merges into the infinite grace of Prabhu Shri Jagannath, we bow our heads in reverence and gratitude for his inspiring life.

A Prayer for the Departed Soul

“May Prabhu Shri Jagannath embrace his soul with eternal peace.
May his journey ahead be filled with divine light and love.
May his legacy of faith and service continue to guide us all.”

Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti. 🙏