Dr. Radhanath Rath started his distinguished carrer in Journalism as Manager and Assistant Editor of the largest circulated Oriya daily “The Samaj” in 1919 and became its Editor in 1961. A powerful writer and speaker, journalism was closed to his heart. Responding to the call of Utkalamani Gopabandhu Das, he gave up a lucrative offer of employment by the British Govt. Member of Orissa Legislative Assembly from 1946-1977, but for a brief period from 1961 to 1967. Appointed cabinet Minister in charge of Finance, Education, Forestry and Agriculture from 1952 to 1961. Endowed with a phenomenal memory he was a great social reformer and fought for the upliftment of the down trodden. President Servants of the people Society ( Lok Sevak Mandal) and Chairman of its Orissa Branch. Gave new direction to the Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology as its Pro-Chancellor. Chief Commissioner Orissa State Bharat Scouts and Guides and Ex-President of Bharat Sevak Samaj. He was associated with a large number of public bodies like Redcross, Panchayats, Divine Life Society, Indo-china Cultural Association, Indo Soviet Friendship Society and President of Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha.

A distinguished writer, he was awarded Orissa Sahitya Academy Award in 1967 and awarded Padmabhusan 1968. Received critic Circle of India award in 1987. All India Anubrata award in 1988. Utkal Ratna Samman in 1993. He was conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws (LL.D) by the Berhampur University in 1976.