New Delhi: Renowned writer, academician and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Temsula Ao passed away on Sunday night at a private hospital in Dimapur. She was 80.A recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award, Ao wrote in English and emerged as a leading poet and short story writer from the northeast. She was also chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Women.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed sadness at the death of the litterateur, saying she played a pivotal role in popularising the Naga culture through her literary works.Modi tweeted, “Saddened by the passing away of Dr. Tems la Ao, who played a pivotal role in popularising the wonderful Naga culture through her literary works. Her efforts in the fields of education and culture were noteworthy. Condolences to her family and friends. May her soul rest in peace.”President Droupadi Murmu on Monday condoled the demise of Ao, and said she played a key role in promoting the rich cultural heritage of the northeast.“In the demise of Dr. Temsula Ao, we have lost a prolific author and ethnographer who also made a valuable contribution to women empowerment. Honoured with Padma Shri, she played key role in promoting the rich cultural heritage of North East. Condolences to her family and friends,” the president tweeted.(With PTI inputs)
