Raipur: The last rites of renowned Chhattisgarh-based Hindi writer and Jnanpith Award recipient Vinod Kumar Shukla were performed with full state honours in state capital Raipur on Wednesday.
The last rites of the 88-year-old writer were held at Marwadi Shamshan Ghat in Budha Talab area here this afternoon where senior officials, litterateur, journalists and people from other walks of life bid an emotional farewell to him. His son Shashwat Shukla lit the funeral pyre.
Prior to that, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited the residence of the late litterateur at Shailendra Nagar here and expressed his condolences to the bereaved family.
Talking to reporters, Sai said the demise of Vinod Kumar Shukla has caused an irreparable loss to Hindi literature.
“Born in the soil of Chhattisgarh, Shukla’s writings are a unique blend of sensitivity, human values and simple yet profound expression. His literary contribution took Hindi literature to new heights,” the CM said.
“His works not only deeply touch readers but will continue to inspire and guide future generations. His contribution to the literary world will always be remembered,” Sai added.
The CM offered a wreath on Shukla’s mortal remains and prayed for peace to the departed soul. He also lent his shoulder to Shukla’s mortal remains and joined the funeral procession, bidding an emotional farewell to the renowned writer.
Talking to reporters after visiting Shukla’s residence, noted poet Kumar Vishwas said his death marks the end of an era in Indian poetry.
Recalling his association with the writer, Vishwas said that for those born in the 1970s and whose literary consciousness developed in the 1980s, reading and listening to Vinod Kumar Shukla was an experience in itself.
Indian and Hindi poetry have suffered a major loss with his passing, he said.
He remained away from publicity and lived like a quiet seeker, and departed in the same serene manner. Indian poetry will always remember him for his immense contribution. I have come to pay my final respects, Vishwas said.