Eminent litterateur, former Indian ambassador and retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Absara Beuria passed away at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar late Wednesday night. He was 80.
Beuria, who had served in Indian diplomatic missions in Japan, Russia (formerly USSR), United States of America, United Arab Emirates, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Madagascar, died following a cardiac arrest, informed his wife Trupti Beuria.
The diplomat was known for his close association with Odia Culture and Literature. He served as the chairman of the Institute of Odia Studies & Research (IOSR).
Before joining the Indian Foreign Service, Beuria worked as a Bank officer and lecturer. He studied MA in Political Science from Utkal University, Bhubaneswar and Bachelor of Arts degree from Ravenshaw College (now Ravenshaw University), Cuttack.
After retirement from service, Beuria lived in Sahid Nagar of Bhubaneswar closely associated with leading socio-cultural and philanthropic organisations. He authored five books including Bhitarkanika: The Mesmerising Mangrove.
During his stint as chairman of IOSR, an MoU was signed between the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Institute of Odia Study and Research (IOSR) for introducing Engineering education in Odia language.
Subsequently, President Droupadi Murmu during her two-day visit to Odisha launched the engineering and diploma books in Odia.
As the news of the demise of the diplomat broke, condolences poured in from various quarters.
Expressing condoleneces over the demise of Beuria, President wrote, "Saddened to learn about the demise of Shri Abasar Beuria, former diplomat, author and Chairman, Institute of Odia Studies & Research. He played a key role in translation of engineering books in Odia which I released during my visit to Odisha. Condolences to his family & friends."
BJP National Vice-President Baijayant Panda also expressed grief over the passing of Beuria and wrote, "Shri Abasar Beuria had an exemplary life as a diplomat, strengthening India's diplomatic mission in many countries. After retirement, he contributed immensely to Odia art & literature. His demise is a painful loss for us. My heartfelt condolences to Smt Trupti Beuria & family."
“Just when I was thinking of meeting him, got this terrible news. Deeply saddened on the passing of Ambassador Abasar Beuria. Prayers. Beuria Sir was a simple and very kind hearted person,” wrote IAS officer Arabinda K Padhee.
“Deeply saddened at the demise of Seasoned Diplomat and former Indian Ambassador Shri Abasar Beuria who passed away at the age of 80. His immense contribution to the society and Odia Language will be remembered forever. My deep condolences to the bereaved family. Om Shanti,” BJP state vice president Bhrugu Baxipatra tweeted.
Reported by Bibartan Panda