Raipur– Renowned Hindi poet, humorist, and satirist Dr. Surendra Dubey passed away on Thursday in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, following a heart attack. He was 71.
Dubey, a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, died at the Advanced Cardiac Institute where he had been receiving treatment.
His passing marks the loss of a unique literary voice in Chhattisgarh and beyond—one known for blending humor and satire with profound social commentary. News of his death prompted an outpouring of grief across India’s literary community.
Born on January 8, 1953, in Bemetara, Chhattisgarh, Dubey was not only a celebrated poet but also a trained Ayurvedic doctor. Over the decades, he carved a niche for himself as one of the foremost figures in Hindi satire, performing across India and internationally—including poetry recitations in more than a dozen U.S. cities.
He authored five widely acclaimed books and was a familiar face on television poetry platforms, known for his sharp wit and accessible language.
In 2010, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Shri for his contributions to literature. He was also awarded the Chhattisgarh Ratna by the North America Chhattisgarh Association during an event in Chicago.
Dubey’s poetry often carried deep insights delivered with a lighthearted touch. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he wrote a poem that gained widespread attention for its uplifting tone. One memorable line encouraged readers to “laugh even at worn-out jokes… laugh and make antibodies,” capturing the enduring power of humor during crisis.
His legacy lives on in his verses, which continue to inspire laughter, thought, and resilience. (Source: IANS)