Eminent Litterateur Homen Borgohain no more

Veteran journalist and eminent litterateur Homen Borgohain passed away on Wednesday morning. He was 89.

As per reports, Borgohain complained of severe illness last night. However, his condition deteriorated further, following which he was rushed to the hospital. He breathed his last today at 6:58 AM at GNRC hospital in Dispur.

Borgohain had also tested positive for the novel coronavirus a few days back and had been admitted at the GMCH. He was discharged on May 7 upon being tested negative. His demise is being suspected to be due to post-covid complications.

Borgohain, who was the Editor-in-Chief of Niyomiya Barta, the Assamese daily produced by the Pride East Group, was known for his deep understanding about urban complexities.

Borgohain was born on December 7, 1932 at Dhakuakhana in Lakhimpur district.

Before starting his career in journalism, the prominent novelist, essayist worked as an Assam Civil Service (ACS) officer for a brief period. Borgohain first edited an Assamese weekly newspaper Nilachal and later he edited the weekly Nagarik.

Afterwards, he served as Northeast correspondent for a Bengali daily newspaper Ajkal. Borgohain was also the editor of Asam Bani and Amar Asom, another two leading newspapers of Assam.

He was also the former president of the Asom Sahitya Sabha, the apex literary body of the state.

Borgohain was awarded the 1978 Sahitya Akademi Award in Assamese for his novel Pita Putra.

His other notable literary works include — Saudor Puteke Nao Meli Jay, Halodhiya Soraye Baudhan Khai, Astarag, Subala, Aatmanuxandhan etc.

The veteran journalist’s death has been widely mourned across the state.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on the demise of the prominent litterateur.

Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote, “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.”

Assam Chief Minsiter Himanta Biswa Sarma also expressed deep shock and offered his condolences to the veteran journalist.

“Assam today lost a guardian. His demise has created a huge void among us,” Sarma tweeted in Assamese.

The last rites of veteran journalist will be performed with full national honours, informed Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.  

He further said that State Education Minister Ranuj Pegu has been entrusted with the job of overseeing the arrangements of Homen Borgohain’s last rites.