Renowned Assamese scholar, writer, historian, and professor Udayaditya Bharali passed away at his residence in Dakshin Sarania, Guwahati, at 2:33 AM on Sunday. He was 78 years old at the time of his demise. Professor Bharali had been battling a prolonged illness.
Born in 1947 in Moran, Udayaditya Bharali pursued his early education across various places including Mangaldai, Udalguri, Majbat, Gohpur, Sivasagar, Guwahati, Barama, and Nalbari due to his father’s frequent job transfers. He completed his college education at Cotton College and earned a gold medal in History while obtaining his postgraduate degree from Gauhati University.
From November 14, 1968, to August 31, 2003, Bharali served as a professor at Cotton College, where he also headed the History Department during 2002–2003. In 2003, he took on the role of Principal of Cotton College, retiring from his professional career in 2006.
Recognized for his progressive thoughts and contributions to Assamese society, Professor Bharali was honored with the ‘Parag Kumar Das Journalism Award’ this year. His notable works include serving as the associate editor of The Political History of Assam, Vol-I, chief editor of the biography of Dr. Heramba Kanta Barpujari published by the Assam Government, and Hundred Years: History of Cotton College, 1901-2001, published by the Cotton College Centenary Celebration Committee. His book Jati Samasyar Prashnat (1981), published by Sampratik Prakashan, Guwahati, is a significant contribution to the discourse on societal issues.
In 1996, Bharali received the ‘Bishnu Prasad Rabha Award’ from the Assam Sahitya Sabha for his short story collection Beimanar Thikana. He also served as the convenor of the history session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha in 2004.
The passing of Professor Udayaditya Bharali has left an irreplaceable void in Assam’s academic, literary, and social spheres. His countless admirers have expressed profound grief and paid heartfelt tributes to his memory.
