Mandya: Renowned writer and folk scholar Dr. G.V. Dasegowda (75), passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru on Sunday following brief illness.

Dasegowda, who was popularly known by his pen name ‘GVD’, leaves behind his wife, a daughter, two sons and a host of relatives and friends.

A Kannada teacher by profession, he had served at colleges in Mandya, Bharathinagar, Madikeri and Tumakuru in a career spanning 32 years. He was also well versed in English, Hindi, Sanskrit and Prakrit languages.

He has more than 65 works on Folklore and literature to his credit. A Rajyotsava awardee, he was also awarded by Karnataka Janapada Academy.

His last rites were performed at Mandya last evening, according to family sources.