Bhubaneswar: After prolonged illness, noted dramatist, lyricist and screenwriter Bijay Mishra breathed his last in a private hospital in Bhubaneswar on Sunday. He was 83.
One of the pioneers of the modern theatre movement in Odisha, Mishra was a recipient of Odisha Sahitya Akademi and Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards.
He was conferred with the prestigious Jayadev Award for his lifetime contribution to Odia film industry during the 30th Odisha State Film Awards last year.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep grief at the passing away of the noted dramatist. “He was a leading dramatist of the contemporary times. His contribution to Odia literature and Odia film industry is immense,” he said while conveying his deep sympathy to the bereaved family.