The Odia music fraternity has been plunged into grief with the untimely demise of celebrated playback singer Humane Sagar, who passed away on Monday evening at the age of 35 (reported variably as 34–36 across different sources). A powerhouse vocalist with a devoted fanbase across Odisha and beyond, Sagar’s sudden death has left an irreplaceable void in the regional music industry. He had been undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar for several days and was placed on advanced life-support systems as doctors battled to stabilise his deteriorating health.

A Sudden Medical Crisis That Turned Fatal

According to multiple reports, including Odisha TV and official statements from AIIMS Bhubaneswar, the singer was admitted to the hospital’s emergency ward on 14 November 2025. Despite being placed under intensive monitoring and aggressive medical intervention, his condition showed no substantial signs of improvement.

In a detailed medical bulletin, Dr. Srikant Behera of AIIMS Bhubaneswar confirmed the complexities behind the singer’s tragic demise. He stated:

“Humane Sagar was admitted to the hospital on 14th November with diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia, Acute Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF), dilated cardiomyopathy with severe LV systolic dysfunction, multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) – refractory shock, severe respiratory failure, anuric acute kidney injury, encephalopathy, hepatopathy, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy. He did not respond to treatment despite all aggressive and advanced care provided by an expert team of specialist doctors and expired at 9.08 PM on 17.11.2025.”

The extent of his complications—ranging from severe pneumonia to liver failure, kidney shutdown, respiratory collapse, and cardiac issues—painted a grim picture from the outset. Despite the efforts of a multidisciplinary medical team, the singer succumbed to multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Leaders, Artists, and Fans Mourn a Shattering Loss

The news of Humane Sagar’s death spread rapidly across Odisha, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, fellow musicians, and countless fans.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi’s Condolence

Odisha CM Mohan Majhi expressed profound sorrow through an X (formerly Twitter) post:

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of renowned playback singer Humane Sagar. His demise is an irreparable loss to our music and cinema. I convey my condolences to the bereaved family and pray to God for the peace of the departed soul.”

Naveen Patnaik Pays Tribute

Former Chief Minister and BJD President Naveen Patnaik also mourned the loss, writing:

“Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of Humane Sagar. His soulful music has touched the hearts of countless listeners, and his contributions to Odia music will always remain memorable. Along with praying for the eternal peace of his immortal soul, I convey my condolences to the bereaved family members during this sorrowful time.”

Other Leaders React

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and BJP National Vice President Baijayant Panda also expressed shock and grief, highlighting the extraordinary musical legacy Sagar leaves behind.

The Early Life of a Born Musician

Born on 25 November 1990 in Titilagarh, Bolangir district of Odisha, Humane Sagar belonged to a family deeply rooted in music. His father and mother were singers, and his grandfather worked as a composer for private albums. Growing up in such an environment, music flowed naturally into his life.

This early exposure shaped his talent profoundly. From childhood, Sagar displayed a keen interest in melodies, rhythms, and vocal experimentation. His family’s musical heritage became the foundation for a journey that eventually turned him into one of Odisha’s most successful and beloved playback singers.

Rise to Fame: Winning Voice of Odisha

Humane Sagar shot to statewide fame after winning Tarang TV’s Voice of Odisha Season 2 in 2012. His powerful, emotive voice quickly won over judges and viewers, establishing him as the next big name to watch in the Odia music industry.

The reality show victory wasn’t just a title—it was the launching pad that turned an aspiring singer into a rising star.

Playback Debut and Career Breakthrough

In 2015, Sagar made his playback debut with the Odia film Ishq Tu Hi Tu, produced by Tarang Cine Productions. The title track, composed by Abhijit Majumdar, became an instant sensation. The film itself achieved massive success, and Sagar’s voice became synonymous with heartfelt romantic melodies.

The success of the song marked his entry into mainstream Odia cinema, opening doors to a stream of musical opportunities.

Soon, he became a go-to voice for film producers and music directors. Over the years, he lent his vocals to over 100 Odia songs, carving a niche for himself with his distinct vocal depth and emotional intensity.

Non-Film Music and Venturing into Hindi Albums

Humane Sagar did not limit his talents to Odia cinema. He explored non-film albums, devotional songs, and independent music, gaining a dedicated fanbase in Odisha and among Odia-speaking communities worldwide.

Some of his notable non-film works include:

• Mera Yeh Jahan (Hindi album)

• Tuma Otha Tale

• Niswasa

• Bekhudee

• Chehera (2017)

His versatility—ranging from soulful romantic numbers to high-energy tracks to devotional songs—made him one of the most versatile singers in the region.

A Brief Foray into Politics

In addition to his artistic career, Humane Sagar explored political engagement. On 3 March 2019, he joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). Though he did not pursue a long-term political career, the move reflected his desire to contribute to societal development and connect more deeply with people beyond music.

Personal Life: Love, Music, and Family

Humane Sagar married Shriya Mishra in 2017. Interestingly, Shriya was also a participant in Voice of Odisha Season 2, the same show that crowned Sagar as the winner. Their shared passion for music became the basis of their bond.

The couple had a daughter, completing their small, loving family.

A Legacy Etched in Melodies

Despite passing at a young age, Humane Sagar’s contributions to Odia music are immense. His ability to infuse soul into every song made him a favourite among composers and listeners alike. Whether it was a heart-wrenching breakup track, a devotional melody, or a romantic ballad, Sagar’s voice carried an emotional depth that resonated deeply with audiences.

Fans remember him not just as a singer, but as the voice behind some of Odisha’s most loved songs in the last decade.

The Final Goodbye

Tragically, Sagar’s life was cut short due to an aggressive combination of respiratory, cardiac, liver, and renal complications. Despite being placed under life support and receiving intensive care from specialists, he breathed his last at 9:08 PM on November 17, 2025, at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

His passing triggered an emotional wave across Odisha, with thousands expressing their grief online and offline. From political leaders to fellow artists to everyday listeners, the reaction was unanimous—the loss is immeasurable.

Remembering Humane Sagar: His Music Lives On

While Humane Sagar may no longer be physically present, his voice remains immortal. Every song he recorded, every lyric he poured his heart into, continues to echo across the Odia music landscape. His journey—from a small-town boy with a gifted voice to one of the most adored singers in Odisha—will be remembered for generations. His music, undeniably, will outlive him.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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