LEXINGTON, MA–Saraswati Mathur, an educator, poetess and writer, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday in her residence in Lexington, MA. She was 70. The cause of her sudden death was not known immediately.
Ms. Mathur, who was living in Lexington with her daughter, was born in Ajmer, Rajasthan on August 5, 1948. She was also actively involved with India’s famous Jaipur Literature Festival, which brings together a diverse mix of the world’s writers, thinkers, humanitarians, politicians, business leaders, sports people and entertainers on one stage to champion the freedom of express and engagement.
Ms. Mathur is survived by her husband Mr. J.L. Mathur, Swati (daughter), Kapil (son-in-law), Shweta (daughter), Sharad (son-in-law), Deepak (son) and Pragya (daughter-in-law), Krip, Yash, Kartik, Krish (grandsons), Deeya and Deesha (granddaughters).
She had a PhD in Zoology and P.G. Diploma in Journalism (Gold Medalist). She worked as Head of the department, Zoology at LBS College for 37 years and as Principal of Poddar International College, Jaipur for 2 years.
Ms. Mathur was an eminent writer, poet, educationist, social activist and editor of magazines. Her books on poetry and biotechnology have been published by State Academies. She was a regular contributor of poems, stories and articles in leading national newspapers and magazines. She was a part of regular programs on Doordarshan and Akashwani in Indian.
Ms. Mathur raised her family in Jaipur as a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Spending time with her children brought her great joy. She was a happy, caring and affectionate person. She loved to meet people and make new friends and always spread love and affection to anyone she met.
She loved her extended family and will always be remembered as a friend to many.
“Saraswati ji was a literary guiding light who ignited pure inspiration in writers and audience alike,” said Poppy Charnalia, a local poetess. “She lit up my path as a poet and many others. Her excellence and worship of Hindi Literature superseded any personal boundaries. The light of such selfless work burns bright forever.”
Maneesh Srivastava, a local poet and activist of Boston-based Hindi Manch, said Ms. Mathur had an amazing skill on Hindi Poetry writing.
“She was a very well respected in the Hindi literary community. She loved my poetry and I just admired hers,” said Mr. Srivastava. “So much we learnt from her. The warmth she had that anyone met her first time just connected with her. She was Saraswati Maa.”
