Bhubaneswar: Noted painter, essayist and art student of history Dr Dinanath Pathy passed away after a heart failure at a private hospital here today. He was 74.

Pathy was admitted to Kar Clinic here after he felt chest pain while on his morning walk today. Despite the fact that he was given treatment by doctors, he died shortly thereafter.

A former secretary of the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi and Bhubaneswar, Pathy was one of the pioneers of the art movement in the State. He devoted his life to advancement of Odia workmanship everywhere throughout the world however his craftsmanship, verse and educating. He was likewise the former principal of the BK College of Art and Crafts in Bhubaneswar and chairman of Ila Panda Center for Art.

The eminent painter has written more than 60 books in Odia, English and German languages. Among the books authored by Pathy are Sayonara, Punarnava, Chilika Panire Chhai and Gachha Koradare Hrudaya. His art works have been acclaimed by art lovers and connoisseurs in the country and abroad.