Veteran Assamese Actress Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi Passes Away

Veteran Assamese actress Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi, a prominent face of Assamese cinema during the 1960s and 1970s, passed away in Dibrugarh on Sunday at the age of 80. Her demise marks the end of an era in Assam’s cultural and cinematic history, where she stood out as a trailblazer at a time when women’s participation in films faced strong social resistance.

Distinguished Career in Assamese Cinema

Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi was celebrated for her performances in several landmark Assamese films, including “Dr Bezbarua” (1969), “Maniram Dewan” (1964), “Morom Trishna” (1968), “Loti-Ghoti” (1966), “Pratidhwani” (1964), “Ratanlal” (1975), “Sonmai” (1977), and “Kokadeuta Nati aru Hati” (1983). Her screen presence and versatility earned her widespread recognition and helped shape the golden phase of Assamese cinema.

Cultural Contributions Beyond Films

Apart from acting, Bordoloi was an accomplished classical dancer, proficient in Bharatnatyam and other traditional dance forms. She also worked extensively in theatre and radio. She acted in films directed by cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika and was a founding member of the renowned theatre group Mancharupa, established in 1957. Her performances in radio plays for All India Radio further reflected her wide artistic range.

Honours and Public Recognition

In recognition of her immense contribution to Assamese arts and culture, Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi received the prestigious Bishnu Rabha Award from the Assam government. She was also an artist pensioner, acknowledging her lifelong dedication to the performing arts and cultural enrichment of the state.

What to Note for UPSC Prelims?

• Bishnu Rabha Award is a major cultural honour of Assam.
• Assamese cinema gained prominence during the 1960s and 1970s.
• Bhupen Hazarika played a key role in Assam’s cultural renaissance.
• All India Radio has historically supported regional arts and theatre.

Last Rites and Public Farewell

On Monday, her mortal remains were taken to several cultural and educational institutions in Dibrugarh, including Amolapatty Natya Mandir and Dibrugarh Sangeet Vidyalaya, founded by her family, allowing admirers to pay their last respects. She was later cremated following final rites, as tributes poured in from the cultural fraternity, remembering her as a pioneering actress, dedicated artist, and an enduring inspiration for generations of Assamese performers.