Bengali writer Buddhadeb Guha, who authored several popular books including Madhukari (Honey Gatherer), died of post-Covid complications after cardiac arrest at a private hospital on Sunday night. He was 85. Guha had contracted Covid-19 in April and was hospitalised for 33 days.

Bengali writer Buddhadeb Guha, who authored several popular books including Madhukari (Honey Gatherer) died of post-Covid complications after cardiac arrest at a private hospital on Sunday night. He was 85. Guha had contracted Covid-19 in April and was hospitalised for 33 days.

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 him, which were reflected in his works.

His novels and short stories have been highly acclaimed by critics which helped him win several awards, including the Ananda Purashkar and Sharat Puraskar. He was also a noted classical singer and proficient illustrator.

Besides Madhukari, some of Guha’s notable works include Koeler Kachhe, Sobinoy Nibedon and Baba Howa. He was also popular among children as he was the creator of the fictional character Rijuda, a hunter-turned-conservationist, and his side-kick Rudra. Most of his works focused on the theme of nature and forest.

"The author of Bengali literature, has written notable books, including ‘Koel’, ‘Kojagar’, ‘Madhukari’, ‘Jangalmahal’, ‘Charibeti’ etc."