Mahasweta Devi, eminent writer and social activist, passes away in Kolkata

Kolkata: Eminent writer and social activist Mahasweta Devi passed away at a city nursing home on Thursday following prolonged illness, according to an attending doctor. She was 90. [caption id=“attachment_2920982” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  A file image of writer and social activist Mahasweta Devi, who passed away on Thursday, 28 June, 2016. Reuters[/caption] The 90-year-old veteran Bengali author was suffering from kidney and lung ailments, apart from various blood and urinary tract infections, reported Business Standard. The Ramon Magsaysay winner is survived by her daughter-in-law and grandchild. Mahasweta Devi’s son passed away two years ago. Devi was also felicitated with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, Sahitya Academy and Jnanpith awards, among others. She wrote immensely about the life and the struggles of tribal communities in some of India’s most backward states, and the social bearing of her works were equally well-recognised for their literary finesse. “She passed away at 3.16 pm following a cardiac arrest and multi-organ failure,” the doctor said. Expressing her condolence on the demise of the veteran litterateur, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Bengal has lost a “glorious mother."

India has lost a great writer. Bengal has lost a glorious mother. I have lost a personal guide. Mahashweta Di rest in peace

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) July 28, 2016

West Bengal Governor K N Tripathi in his condolence message said, “I am deeply grieved to learn about the sad demise of Pamabibhusan Mahasweta Devi, a renowned author and social activist. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and her numerous fan-followers.” Devi was known for her contribution in highlighting the plight of tribal communities. Her best known works include classics such as Hajar Churashir Maa, Aranyer Adhikar, some of which were later adapted into successful feature films. With inputs from agencies