Surama Ghatak Passes Away at 92

Surama Ghatak, endearingly known as Surama Devi, was a writer and wife of legendary filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak. She breathed her last at about 12:15 Monday midnight at the age of 92. She is also the niece of active left-wing member, Sadhana Roy Chowdhury.

Although always named after her husband, Surama herself had knack for writing. Along with documenting many of Ghatak's work she wrote books like Padma Theke Titas, Shilon Jail er Diary, Ritwik and numerous others.  She was also a member of the Communist party when she was a student. Attaining a first class in Home Science for the PG diploma course she continued to try for a job to earn a living. She also had keen interest in Indian and world cinema. She was the sole proprietor of Ritwik Ghatak's film Jukti Takko Aar Gappo which never got released. Later on the Indian government took  ownership of the film.

The writer's work echoes the hardship of her life. Surama Ghatak sets a fine example of a 'modern woman' back in the 50s and 60s who pursued her own career to support her family.