Assam’s literary and journalistic community is in mourning following the demise of two eminent figures—Sukumar Bagchi and Nitya Bora—whose contributions left a lasting impact on the state’s cultural and intellectual landscape.
Sukumar Bagchi, who passed away last night, was a distinguished elocutionist, writer, and language activist. He played a pivotal role in promoting Bengali language and culture in the Barak Valley. Known for his unwavering commitment to correct spelling, pronunciation, and recitation, Bagchi mentored generations of writers and cultivated a culture of linguistic discipline.
Through his association with the magazine Samay Prabah, he inspired many young writers to enter the world of literature. His influence extended beyond the Bengali community, as he worked to foster harmony and intellectual exchange between Assamese and Bengali societies. Later, he served as editor of the Bengali newspaper Sangbad Lahari for several years and was actively involved with the Ramanath Bhattacharya Foundation. His teachings on editing, language precision, and punctuation continue to guide many in the field.
Meanwhile, veteran journalist, writer, and critic Nitya Bora passed away on April 22 at a private hospital in Jorhat at the age of 83 after battling health issues related to high blood pressure. He had been undergoing treatment for several months, initially in Guwahati before being shifted to Jorhat.
Former editor of ‘Assamiya Pratidin’, Bora was a respected voice in Assam’s media and literary circles, Bora authored and edited numerous books and held key editorial positions in several publications. His death marks a significant loss to Assam’s intellectual and journalistic sphere. He was the
His mortal remains have been brought to Guwahati, where his last rites will be performed. The Guwahati Press Club and members of the media fraternity have expressed deep condolences, describing his passing as an irreparable loss to the state’s public and intellectual life.
The passing of both Bagchi and Bora has created a profound void in Assam’s literary, cultural, and journalistic domains—one that will be difficult to fill.
