Jorhat, October 26, 1961:
Today marks one of the darkest chapters in the history of Assamese literature. The luminous star of the Jonaki Era—poet, writer, dramatist, and lyricist Chandradhar Baruah—has passed away, casting a deep shadow of grief across Assam. It feels as though the skies over Jorhat have dimmed, and a radiant flame in Assamese literature has been extinguished.
Born on 15 October 1874 in Jorhat, Baruah was one of the pioneers of Assamese national consciousness and literary awakening. Through his pen, Assamese thought found new wings, and literature discovered new pathways. Whether in poetry, drama, novels, or lyrics, his creative brilliance enriched the cultural fabric of the land.
His poetic works such as “Ranjan,” “Bidyut Bikash,” and “Kamrup Jiyori,” his dramatic creations like “Meghnad Badh,” “Bhagya Pariksha,” “Mogal Bijoy,” and “Ahom Sandhya,” and his novel “Shanti” remain treasured milestones in Assamese literary history. Posthumously, his monumental collection “Ratnakosh,” comprising more than 3,300 proverbs, idioms, and expressions, became a priceless archive of Assamese linguistic heritage.
In 1918, Baruah took charge as the second President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, elevating the organization to new heights. He was also the founding editor of the Sabha’s journal “Asam Sahitya Sabha Patrika,” shaping literary discourse for decades.
In recognition of his invaluable contributions, he was conferred the title of “Sahitya Ratna” in 1929. His role was not confined to literature alone—he actively engaged in society and politics. At the Round Table Conference in London in 1930, Baruah represented Assam, voicing the aspirations of his homeland in the struggle for India’s freedom.
With his passing, an era of Assamese literature has come to a close. A guiding star has faded, leaving behind an irreplaceable void. Yet his ideals, his works, and the inspiration he offered will forever shine as a beacon for generations to come.
The death of Chandradhar Baruah is not just a literary loss—it is the end of a chapter, the drawing of a great curtain. And yet, in the collective heart of Assam, his light will remain eternal.
🕯️ “To speak the name of Baruah is to feel the very soul of Assamese literature.”
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