Laxmikant Choudhary, the PRO of AIIMS Raipur, confirmed that Shukla died at 4:58 pm. (File Photo, enhanced using Google Gemini)
Eminent Hindi litterateur Vinod Kumar Shukla passed away in Raipur on Tuesday. He was 88.
Laxmikant Choudhary, the PRO of AIIMS Raipur, confirmed that Shukla died at 4:58 pm and said the cause of death is multiple organ infection and organ failure. He was admitted on December 2.
Earlier this year, Shukla was awarded the 59th Jnanpith Award for his contributions to Hindi Literature. The award is the highest literary honour given to writers who have excelled in literature in different Indian languages.
Shukla, a renowned Hindi writer, poet and novelist, became the first person from Chhattisgarh to receive the award.
“His writings are known for their simplicity, sensitivity and unique writing style. He is also famous for experimental writing in modern Hindi literature. His first booklet of poetry, Lagbhag Jai Hind, was published in 1971. His major novels include Naukar Ki Kameez, Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rahti Thi, and Khilega To Dekhenge,” a release by Bharatiya Jnanpith at the time stated. “His poems and stories present the nuances of a common life in a simple language.”
Hindi writer and poet Vinod Kumar Shukla. (File Photo)
Shukla had said at the time, “I’ve seen a lot (in life), heard a lot and felt a lot, but I could write only a little. When I think of how much I needed to write… it feels like a lot remains. Till I remain (alive), I want to complete my remaining writings, but I may not be able to finish my work… Due to this, I’m in a great dilemma. I want to pursue my life through my writing, but my life is rapidly approaching its end, and I don’t know how to write that fast, so I feel a bit regretful.”
He added with a pinch of humour: “I cannot say it (the award) is sweet as I am a diabetic.”