Veteran journalist passes away

Indore, Nov 4 (UNI) Veteran journalist Ratnesh Kusumakar passed away today at a private hospital here following brief illness.

He was 82. He is survived by wife, two sons and two daughters.

Mr Kusumakar started his career as a trainee journalist in Hindi daily 'Nai Duniya' and went on to work with 'Nav Prabhat', 'Dainik Jagran' and 'Dainik Dastak'. He also worked as a resident editor of 'Nav Bharat.

He had been honoured by the then Governor Kunwar Mehmud Ali for his contribution to journalism. He had also been honoured for his contribution to literature by Hindi Sahitya Samiti, Prayag.

The last rites were performed this afternoon.

Meanwhile, a UNI report from the state capital said, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed profound grief at the demise of Mr Kusumakar.

He said Mr Kusumakar served society through journalism for 50 years. He was also a noted poet and litterateur.

The Chief Minister prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members of the deceased.

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