Eminent writer, veteran journalist, Sahitya Akademi award winner, Homen Borgohain was cremated with full state honours at the Nabagraha crematorium in Guwahati on Wednesday evening.
Borgohain’s family, relatives and well-wishers paid their last respects while conforming to Covid-19 safeguards.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also attended the funeral of the eminent author at Nabagraha crematorium and paid his tributes to the mortal remains of the literary doyen.
Sarma deeply condoled the demise of eminent, editor and columnist Borgohain who breathed his last in a city hospital on Wednesday morning.
The Chief Minister said that late Borgohain was anepochal figure in Assamese literature and with his death the state has lost a guiding light.
“He was a gifted writer who exhibited his prowess in all genres of literature with equal ease. Late Borgohain had deep understanding about human life and through his simple and unique style of writing eloquently highlighted its myriad facets,” the Chief Minister said.
“He has left an unparalleled legacy with his literary and journalistic contributions. His passing away is an irreparable loss and the Assamese society will continue to feel his void for all times to come,” Sarma observed.
88-year-old Borgohain was battling post-Covid-19 complications. He passed away after suffering cardiac arrest at the GNRC Hospital in Guwahati, Assam.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi too has expressed grief over the passing away of Borgohain.
In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, “Shri Homen Borgohain will be remembered for his rich contributions to Assamese literature and journalism. His works reflected diverse aspects of Assamese life and culture. Saddened by his passing away. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Borgohain was working as the editor-in-chief of the Assamese daily Niyomiya Barta. He was awarded the 1978 Sahitya Akademi Award in the Assamese language for his novel ‘Pita Putra’.
Borgohain also wrote short stories, novels and poetry. He was president of the Asam Sahitya Sabha.
Born in Dhakhuwakhana on December 7, 1932, he was also presented with the Srimanta Sankardev Award.
