Eminent Bengali writer Buddhadeb Guha is no more

Eminent Bengali writer Buddhadeb Guha, author of many notable works such as `Madhukari’ (Honey Gatherer), is no more. He was 85.

Guha, died of post-covid complications at a private hospital here on Saturday at 11:25 pm at a private hospital Sunday after a massive cardiac arrest, his family said.

The writer, whose works of fiction reflected his closeness to nature and forests of eastern India, was suffering from post-Covid complications and had been hospitalised earlier this month after complaining of breathlessness and urinary infection, his family said.

He had earlier suffered from Covid-19 in April and had been hospitalised for 33 days. Guha was predeceased by wife, eminent Rabindra Sangeet exponent Ritu Guha in 2011 and left behind two daughters.

Born on June 29, 1936 in Kolkata, Guha had spent his childhood in Rangpur and Barisal districts of East Bengal (now Bangladesh). His childhood experiences and travels left a deep imprint on his mind, which was reflected in his works later on.

His novels and short stories have been highly acclaimed by critics, winning him fans across the sub-continent and several awards including Ananda Purashkar in 1976, Shiroman Purashkar and Sharat Puraskar.

His important works besides `Madhukari’ include `Koeler Kachhe’ (Near the Koel bird) and `Sobinoy Nibedon’ (Humble Offering).

An award-winning Bengali film ‘Dictionary’ was made based on two of his works `Baba Howa’ (Being a Father) and `Swami Howa’ (Being a Husband).

He was also a popular children’s writer creating the fictional character Rijuda, a hunter-turned-conservationist and his side-kick Rudra.

By profession a charted accountant, Guha was also noted classical singer and a proficient illustrator. ”Buddhadev Guha is no more. He was blessed as to be one with the Divine on the night of Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday) 2021.Do join his family and friends in celebrating his life,” his elder daughter Maleni B Guhaa posted in social media.