Kolkata: Eminent writer and social activist Mahasweta Devi passed away at a city nursing home on Thursday following prolonged illness, an attending doctor said. She was 90.

The Ramon Magsaysay winner is survived by her daughter-in-law and grandchild. Mahasweta Devi’s son pre-deceased her two years ago. The 90-year-old was a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award, Padma Vibhushan and Jnanpith Award, among several others.

Devi had been undergoing treatment at Kolkata’s Belle Vue Clinic for the past two months. Doctors said she had been admitted with illnesses related to old age. Her condition had deteriorated as a result of blood infection and kidney failure.

Her notable works include Hajar Chaurashir Maa, Breast Stories, and Tin Korir Sadh, among many others. Several of her works have been adapted in films over the years. The leading Bengali fiction writer was known for her contribution towards the welfare of tribal people.

“She passed away at 3.16 p.m. following a cardiac arrest and multi-organ failure,” the doctor said.