Birendra Nath Datta

Birendranath Datta (1 March 1935 – 23 October 2023) was an Indian academic, linguist, author, researcher of folklore, singer, and lyricist. During his career, he worked mainly as a professor in a variety of Assam colleges. In 2009, he was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for Literature and Education,

Early life Birendra Nath Datta was born on 1 March 1935 in Nagaon, Assam to Kalpanath Datta, a school teacher, and Mandakini Datta. Their original home was in Panera village, near Baihata Chariali. As an Assamese academician, linguist, and folklorist, he came from a Kalita (Kayastha) caste background.

Datta started his education at Chenikuthi L.P. School in Guwahati and then studied in Goalpara. In 1933, Datta secured ranks among the top 10 in both Matriculation and I.Sc. examinations at Gauhati University. He earned his bachelor's degree at Viswabharati University and his master's degrees at Gauhati University, both in Economics.

Music career Datta was also a singer and composer.

Death Birendra Nath Datta died in Guwahati on 23 October 2023, at the age of 88.

Awards Padma Shri (2009) Jagaddhatri-Harmohan Das Literary award (2010)