Pune (Maharashtra), Jan 30 (IANS): Renowned feminist, rights activist, author and social worker Vidya Bal - who fought for women's entry in temples - passed away here early on Thursday after a brief illness, family sources said.

She was 84 and breathed her last around 5.30 a.m. at a private hospital where she was undergoing treatment.

Bal's mortal remains shall be kept at 'Nachiket', her Prabhat Road residence to enable people pay their last respects.

She was the founder of the 'Nari Samata Manch' (1981), an organisation dedicated to discuss and tackle women's problems, especially from the rural areas and campaigned for equal rights for women vis-A-vis men in all spheres.

Bal was a vigorous crusader for euthanasia, violence against women, female empowerment, fought legal battles for entry to women in temples or places of worship in India, providing public toilets for women in Pune and across Maharashtra.

She also authored many acclaimed literary works.

Several political leaders, intellectuals, and activists have condoled the demise of Bal.