Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 08:
Noted Manipuri writer and Sanskrit scholar Shijagurumayum Nilbir Sharma Shastry passed away at his Brahmapur Bhagyabati Leikai residence today morning.
He was 80.Nilbir was honoured by the State Kala Academy in 1988 for his short story collection, Tatkhraba Punshi Leipun, which also won him the Sahitya Akademi award in 1989. His book of poems, Ethak Epom was honoured with the Jamini Sunder Guha Gold medal in 1973.For his contribution to development of Manipuri literature in Assam, Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Assam felicitated Nilbir with the Sahitya Ratna title.
Nilbir also played a pivotal role in establishing the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Cachar Branch in 1961.Some of his other works are Khongjom Tirtha (poetry), Basanti Charong (short story), Rajnigandha (poetry), Kairaba Ashagee Manglan (short stories), etc.
Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Writers� Forum, Imphal and Manipuri Literary Society have condoled the death of the noted writer.