He lived with self-pride and died calm. A scribe of repute, an editor of commitment and an author with humor, Tilak Hazarika passed away on the early hours of 22 October. The 95 crossed Assamese gentleman was admitted in the hospital on 19 September following a brain stroke, where the accomplished writer breathed his last.
The veteran journalist, who was engaged with the popular Assamese weekly Sadin till his end, continued writing over various contemporary issues till he got hospitalized. He also authored and translated few books and was honored with accolades including the prestigious Sahitya Academy award inm 1996.
Born at Silghat Sonari village in Koliabor on 3 October 1921, Hazarika started his journalism career with Natun Asomiya (edited by eminent poet Debokanta Barua) in 1949 and later joined Asam Bani, published by the well-regarded Assam Tribune group, in 1957. He was elevated to the post of editor in the acclaimed weekly. Finally Hazarika joined Sadin as its founder editor in 1989 and continued serving the newspaper till his demise.
Hazarika’s literary works include Adda (1958), Koto Kahini (1960), Ityadi (1984), Sihote Amak Gaan Gabo Nidiye (1999) and Abelir Sha (2000). His translation work titled Phanishwar Nath Renur Shrestha Kahini received wide appreciation from the critics.
Assam Governor Banwarilal Purohit, chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Assembly speaker Ranjit Das, former CM Tarun Gogoi with a host of political leaders, civil society leaders, media outlet representatives etc expressed their profound grief at the death of Hazarika. The last rites of the soft-spoken media personality were performed with State honours at Navagraha crematorium in presence of hundreds admires and close relatives.
His mortal remains were taken from the hospital to his Silpukhuri residence for necessary rituals. His wife Ansuya Hazarika bid a tearful adieu and only daughter Manjori Bora lighted the pyre. Earlier his flower-patterned body was taken to Sadin-Pratidin & Pratidin Time office, Assam Tribune complex and Guwahati Press Club for final tributes by the media fraternity.
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