Odisha Governor’s wife Sushila Devi dies at 74

Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal’s wife Sushila Devi (74) died Sunday (November 22) night at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar.

The governor, his wife, and four other family members had tested positive for Covid-19 on November 2. She was admitted to SUM Ultimate hospital here for post-COVID complications and other comorbidities.

Ganesh Lal took to Twitter to announce the death of his wife. “With profound grief and heavy heart, we inform that the First Lady of the State Smt Sushila Devi passed away yesterday night. Let us pray for the departed holy soul. Om Shanti,” he tweeted. 

Born in Hisar of Haryana, Sushila Devi married Prof Lal in July 1964. The couple had 4 daughters and 3 sons. Though wheelchair-bound, she took part in several socio-cultural activities.

A host of dignitaries, including Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan, expressed deep grief at her demise.

Describing her as a very warm and pious person, Patnaik conveyed his deep sympathy to the governor and other members of the bereaved family. "May her soul rest in peace," he said in a message.