Dr. Birendra Nath Datta, an eminent Assamese academician, singer, linguist, folklore and lyricist in the North East region of India passed away today at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness.

Datta is also a recipient of the Padma Shri, where he was awarded in 2009 for his contributions in the field of Literature and Education. In 2010, he received the Jagaddhatri-Harmohan Das Literary award. Datta was elected as the President of Asom Sahitya Sabha for North Lakhimpur Session, 2003 and Hojai Session, 2004.

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Revered in the field of education and folklore, Dr Birendra Nath Dutta received his Ph.D. degree from Gauhati University in 1974, titled ‘A Study of the Folk Culture of the Goalpara District of Assam’. Datta started his profession as a lecturer at B. Borooah College. In 1964, he joined Pramathesh Barua College at Gauripur as the founder principal. He worked as the principal in two other colleges, Goalpara College and Pandu College

According to news sources, Dr. Birendra Nath Dutta is survived by his son, Dr. Uddalak Dutta, and two daughters, Dr Sudeshna Choudhury and Dr Upasana Dutta.