Sahitya Academy Award laureate Father Francis D’Britto passed away at his home in Vasai of Palghar district of Maharashtra early this morning. According to the Vasai Bishop House spokesperson, Fr Bernard Fernandes, Fr D’Britto’s mortal remains shall be kept at his home till afternoon to enable people and his legion of followers to pay their last respects. In January 2020, he was elected President of the 93rd All India Marathi Literary Conference held in then Osmanabad (now Dharashiv). Among other works of literature, Fr. D’Britto is renowned for his translation of the Holy Bible (New Testament) into lucid Marathi titled ‘Subodh Bible-Nava Karar’, which became an instant best-seller with over three reprints. He also worked for environmental conservation in the Vasai area.