Buddhadeb Guha, creator of 'Rijuda', passes away at 85; Read about his life and works

Eminent Bengali writer Buddhadeb Guha breathed his last in a private hospital in Kolkata on Sunday night. The celebrated writer died of a heart attack at the age of 85 and is survived by his two daughters.

His best-known works include Madhukari, Koeler Kachhe, Sobinoy Nibedon, and Baba Howa. Guha's works were also popular among children and he was responsible for introducing the world to characters Rijuda and Rudra. Most of Guha's work revolved around the theme of nature.

CM Mamata Banerjee, Governor Dhankar express condolences

Governor of West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar conveyed his sympathies on Guha's death. "Saddened at passing of eminent Bengali writer Buddhadeb Guha, author of many notable works such as 'Madhukari' (Honey Gatherer). His works of fiction reflected his closeness to nature and forests of eastern India. Pray Almighty to bestow eternal peace on the departed soul," he tweeted.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed her condolences and recalled some of Guha's notable works. 

"I am deeply saddened by the demise of the eminent writer Buddhadev Guha. He passed away in Kolkata last night. He was 85 years old. Buddhadev Guha, the prominent author of Bengali literature, had written notable books including Koel, Kojagar, Madhukari, Jangalmahal, Charibeti etc. He is also the creator of two popular fictional characters in Bengali literature - Rivu and Rijuda," the West Bengal CM wrote.

Kanchan Gupta, Senior Adviser, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting wrote, "Sad news from #Kolkata Buddhadeb Guha, eminent writer, has passed away. He was 85. He leaves behind a massive body of literary work, mostly about east India forests, their people and their culture. Condolences to his family. Prayers for the departed soul. (sic)" 

Here are some other reactions to the prominent writer's demise:

Buddhadeb Guha: Life & Works 

Guha attended the University of Calcutta's St Xavier's College. He spent his early years in several districts across Bangladesh. In his Rivu series, he depicts those days in Rangpur, Jaipurhat, and Barisal. Some of Rivu's novels are dedicated to his childhood friends.

Rijuda, an imaginary figure who explores jungles with his companion Rudra, was also created by him. He primarily wrote on the jungles of Eastern India. In 1976, Guha was awarded the Ananda Puraskar. By profession, he was a chartered accountant. 

Buddhadeb Guha's Books

Rivu:

• Durer Bhor
• Durer Dupur (Deys)
• Najai
• Parnomochi
• Parijayii (Sahityam, 2000)
• Rivu (Deys, 1992)
• Rivur Sraban (Ananda Pub)
• Rivu [1-4] (Deys)

Rijuda:

• Albino (Ananda Pub)
• Aro Dui Rijuda (Sahityam)
• Aro Dui Notun Rijuda Kahini (Sahityam)
• Saptam Ripu
• Teen Nombor
• Aro Tin Rijuda Kahini (Sahityam)
• Bagher Mangsho Ebong Onnyo Shikar (Ananda Pub)
• Bonobibir Bon e (Ananda Pub)
• Duti Rijuda Kahini (Sahityam, 2004)
• Gugunogumbarer Deshe (Ananda Pub)
• Langra Pahan (Ananda Pub)
• Moulir Raat (Ananda Pub)
• Ninikumari r Bagh (Ananda Pub)
• Rijuda Kahini (Sahityam)
• Kuruboker Deshe
• Projati Projapoti
• Jomduar
• Rijuda Samagra [1-5] (Ananda Pub, 1993)
• Rijudar Char Kahini (Sahityam, 2002)
• Rijudar Songe Jongole (Ananda Pub)
• Rijudar Songe Boxer Jongole Ebong (Ananda Pub)
• Rijudar Songe Lobongi Bone (Ananda Pub)
• Rijudar Songe Sodorbone o Anyanyo Golpo (Sahityam)
• Rijudar Songe Sufkor e (Ananda Pub)
• Ru Aha (Ananda Pub)
• Taar Baghoa (Ananda Pub)
• Tin Rijuda (Sahityam)
• Tin Rijuda (Sahityam)[6]

(Image: Buddhadeb Guha/Twitter)