Eminent writer and princess of Manipur’s former royal family, Maharaj Kumari Binodini died in her residence here, family sources said on Tuesday.
She passed away at around 8.15 on Monday night.
Ms. Binodini was 89 and survived by two sons and two grand children. Her husband Nano Singh, who was the first director of State health services after the merger of Manipur with the Union of India, predeceased her.
ADVERTISEMENT
A prolific writer whose many stories were filmed, Ms. Binodini was conferred ‘Padmasri’ which she later returned to the central government for not withdrawing the Armed Forces Special Powers Act from Manipur.
Youngest daughter of former Manipur Maharaj Sir Churachand Singh, Ms. Binodini was popularly called ‘Imasi’ (respected mother) by the Manipuris.
She was educated at St Mary’s College in Shillong and later at Vidyasagar College in West Bengal. She wrote hundreds of short stories, novels and essays on various social issues.
ADVERTISEMENT
A film based on her novel ‘Imagi Ningthem’ (My dear son) bagged several international awards.
Her mortal remains were consigned to flames at Yaiskul near her house on Monday night.