Bhubaneswar: Eminent Odia litterateur and Padma Shri Manoj Das passed away while undergoing treatment at a nursing home in Puducherry. He was 87.
Das had been under treatment at the nursing home at Sri Aurobinda Ashram in Puducherry due to old-age related ailments and breathed his last at 8.15 this evening, family sources said.
Das had carved a niche for himself in the field of literature over the past several decades. He wrote many short stories, novels and poems which have been highly appreciated by readers across the world.
He was honoured with the prestigious civilian award, Padma Shri in 2001 and Padma Bhusan this year for his pioneering work in literature.
Odisha Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal condoled the passing away of Das and said he would continue to inspire generations through his timeless literary works.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said Das has left an indelible mark in the field of literature with his vast variety of immortal works and left a void which can never be filled.
BJP National Vice-President Baijayant Panda termed the death of Das as an unrepairable loss to the literary world.
Expressing grief over the demise of the legendary writer, Odisha PCC president Niranjan Patnaik said he lost a dear friend and a well wisher.