GUWAHATI, March 14 � Eminent litterateur Bireswar Baruah passed away at his residence at Barnachal around 2 pm today. He was 77.
A Sahitya Akademi awardee, Baruah was a well known poet, short story writer and novelist. Some of his notable works include Nirjon Navik, Achin Arao, Dauki Charay Samuk Aru Nakshatra, Nirbachita Kavita (all poetry collections), Pratham Ragini, Neelimar Man, Ban Harini, Prachir, Pratichhabi, Mahajivanar Pandulipi, Bireswar Baruahr Nirbachita Galpa (all short story compilations), Anek Putalar Nach, Jetukar Pat, Abandhana Man (all novels). He also penned several books for children in addition to editing a volume titled Surya Kumar Bhuyanr Kabita.
A recipient of the Asam Sahitya Sabha award in 1983, Baruah was also honoured with the Bharatiya Bhasa Sahitya Sabha award in 1989.
An IAS officer, Baruah was an able administrator who began his career in the Garo Hills of then undivided Assam. He went on to serve in different capacities including as Deputy Commissioner of Nalbari, managing director of Assam Financial Corporation, Inspector General of Prisons, and Commissioner of Cultural Affairs and Sports.
He leaves behind his wife, a son and a daughter besides a host of relatives.
Baruah�s death was widely mourned.