Prime Minister Modi Mourns the Passing of Renowned Bengali Writer Mani Shankar Mukherjee

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Ganpat Singh Chouhan

New Delhi, February 21: Renowned Bengali author Mani Shankar Mukherjee, affectionately known as ‘Shankar’, passed away on February 20 at the age of 93 in a private hospital in Kolkata. His death has sent shockwaves through the Bengali literary community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Mukherjee, expressing deep condolences to his family, friends, and countless admirers.

In a post on the social media platform ‘X’, PM Modi expressed his sorrow over Mukherjee’s demise. He wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mani Shankar Mukherjee, fondly known as Shankar. He was a towering figure in Bengali literature, whose words depicted life with sensitivity and understanding. Through his memorable works, he impacted generations of readers and enriched India’s literary landscape. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and innumerable fans. Om Shanti.”

Born on December 7, 1933, Mukherjee was one of the most popular and influential writers in Bengali literature. His works intricately portrayed the complexities of urban life, aspirations, moral dilemmas, and social realities. Some of his most famous works include ‘Chaurangi’, ‘Seemabaddha’, ‘Janaranjya’, ‘Kato Ajana’, and ‘Ek Eka Ekashi’. ‘Chaurangi’ was adapted into a film by Satyajit Ray in 1968, gaining international acclaim. Many of his other works were also transformed into films, including Ray’s ‘Seemabaddha’ and ‘Janaranjya’.

Over a writing career spanning more than 70 years, Shankar authored dozens of novels, short story collections, memoirs, and essays. In 2020, he received the Sahitya Akademi Award for ‘Ek Eka Ekashi’ (Memoir). He was known for his blend of satire, humor, and profound human sensitivity, vividly bringing to life the aspirations and struggles of the urban middle class, influencing many generations.

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