A towering tribute to one of Assam's most revered intellectual figures now stands tall in his homeland. On Sunday, a majestic 21-foot-tall bronze statue of the celebrated Assamese litterateur, journalist, and thinker Homen Borgohain was unveiled at his birthplace, Dhakuakhana, in the Lakhimpur district. The unveiling ceremony was held on the premises of the Homen Borgohain Trust, coinciding with the birth anniversary of the legendary writer.
A Legacy Cast in Bronze
The grand statue serves as a permanent homage to Borgohain, whose profound writings and progressive thoughts deeply influenced Assam's literary and social landscape for decades. Born on December 7, 1932, and passing away on May 12, 2021, Borgohain's work continues to resonate. He was a recipient of the prestigious 1978 Sahitya Akademi Award for his acclaimed novel "Pita Putra" and also served as the president of the Assam Sahitya Sabha from 2001 to 2002. He is remembered as a steadfast symbol of truth, intellect, and humanism in Assamese culture.
Dignitaries Hail a Literary Pillar
The event witnessed the presence of notable personalities who paid rich tributes to Borgohain's enduring legacy. Lakhimpur MP Pradan Baruah, who attended the ceremony, described the day as a proud moment for all of Assam. He emphasized that Borgohain's words remain a guiding light for generations and that the statue is a reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold the values he championed.
Eminent educationist and former Vice-Chancellor of Gauhati University, Dr. Amarjyoti Choudhury, honored Borgohain as "a conscience keeper of Assamese society." He noted that Borgohain was not merely a novelist but a life philosopher whose vision extended far beyond the written page.
The ceremony was also graced by noted writer and musician Anjanjyoti Choudhury, eminent poet Anupama Basumatary, and Dimbeswar Gogoi, the chairman of the Homen Borgohain Trust, along with several trustees. A large gathering of admirers, including Dhakuakhana Sub-Divisional Commissioner Apurba Kumar Nath, representatives from civic bodies, literary figures, and social organizations, marked the significance of the occasion.
A Beacon for Future Generations
Speaking on behalf of the Homen Borgohain Trust, Chairman Dimbeswar Gogoi stated that the statue embodies the pride and intellect of Dhakuakhana. He expressed hope that it would stand as a beacon, inspiring the youth to pursue knowledge and truth—the very principles that defined Borgohain's life and work.
The Homen Borgohain Trust has been instrumental in preserving and promoting the literary and journalistic contributions of the iconic author. The installation of this monumental statue represents a significant milestone in their ongoing mission to keep his ideals and intellectual spirit alive for future generations to cherish and draw inspiration from.
