Natwar Thakkar, a Padma Shri awardee, known as “Nagaland’s Gandhi” for his efforts to spread Gandhian philosophy in the insurgency-affected state, passed away at a private hospital here on Sunday morning.

He was 86 and is survived by his wife Lentina Ao, a son and two daughters.

His son Aotoshi said Thakkar breathed his last at 7.10am at Apollo Hospital here where he was admitted since September 19 for multiple complications.

Born in Thane district of Maharashtra in 1932, Thakkar made Nagaland his home and founded the Nagaland Gandhi Ashram at Chuchuyimlang village in Mokokchung district in 1955 to propagate Gandhian philosophy and peace.

He had also started a vocational training centre for school dropouts and the physically-challenged and popularised khadi and village industries besides setting up a library at Chuchuyimlang village.

He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999.

“I am saddened to hear about the demise of Thakkar. He made significant contributions towards the betterment of society. May his soul rest in peace,” Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio said.

Thakkar’s mortal remains were kept at Sarania Ashram here and will be taken to Chuchuyimlang on Sunday evening.