Pune: Father Francis Dibrito, a religious leader and prominent literary figure, passed away early Thursday (July 25) morning after a prolonged illness. He was 82.

Known for his unwavering dedication to environmental causes and his contributions to literature, Father Dibrito's passing is a great loss to both communities.

Father Dibrito, who had been ill for several years, took his last breath at his residence in Vasai around 5 AM. He was the president of the 93rd All India Marathi Literary Conference held in Dharashiv (Osmanabad). His death has left the literary world and the environmental movement in mourning.

His body will be kept for public viewing at his residence in Jeladi until 3:30 PM today. Following this, it will be available for viewing at Holy Spirit Church in Nandakhal from 4 PM. The funeral mass will take place at the Holy Spirit Church at 6 PM today.

Educated at St. Joseph Marathi High School in Nandakhal, Father Dibrito was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1972. He held a B.A. in Sociology from Pune University and an M.A. in Theology.

Despite his religious vocation, he was a key advocate for environmental issues in the Vasai Taluka of Palghar district and surrounding areas.

Through the magazine 'Suvarta,' Father Dibrito addressed a wide range of social issues and spearheaded numerous initiatives, establishing the magazine as a significant publication in Marathi literature. He served as the chief editor of 'Suvarta' from 1983 to 2007.

Father Dibrito was instrumental in founding the 'Harit Vasai Sanrakshan Samiti,' through which he led a major movement for environmental protection and conservation. His book 'Sangharshyatra Khristabhoomichi' was the result of extensive research conducted in Israel.