Safiqur Rahman, Nagaon: Nagaon on Sunday fondly remembered one of its most distinguished sons, late Rajen Borkakati—a veteran journalist, eminent sports organiser and dedicated social worker—at a solemn memorial meeting held at the Dr. Abu Hanifa Auditorium of the Nagaon Press Club. The programme was jointly organised by the Nagaon Press Club and Shilpi Kanan Assam, bringing together eminent personalities from the fields of journalism, literature, culture, sports and public life to celebrate the remarkable legacy of the departed stalwart.
The tribute ceremony commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp before the portrait of Rajen Borkakati by former Assam Minister and retired professor Girindra Kumar Baruah, who paid heartfelt homage to the veteran journalist.
The memorial meeting, conducted by Mridupawan Bora, Secretary of Shilpi Kanan Assam, was attended by several distinguished personalities, including former Minister Girindra Kumar Baruah, noted short story writer Shibananda Kakati, President of the Nagaon Press Club Jiten Borkotoky, eminent playwright Saponti Bordoloi, former Public Relations Officer and writer-journalist Gurmail Singh, and Central Committee member of Shilpi Kanan Assam Ratul Neog.
Recalling Borkakati's illustrious life and enduring contributions, the speakers described him as a fearless journalist, an uncompromising man of principles, a committed nationalist, an inspiring sports organiser and a devoted social worker. They highlighted his unwavering integrity, dedication to public welfare and lifelong service to journalism and sports, stating that his ideals and work would continue to inspire future generations.
A touching moment of the programme came when journalist Safiqur Rahman recited a self-composed English poem in memory of Rajen Borkakati, paying an emotional tribute to the legendary journalist.
The gathering turned deeply emotional when Borkakati's daughter, Rodali Borkakati Majumdar, reminisced about her father's life and values, sharing cherished memories that moved the audience.
Among those present were Nagaon Press Club Advisor Kanak Hazarika, Treasurer Faizur Rahman, journalist Miju Bora, Vice-President of Shilpi Kanan Assam Bandipa Hazarika Saikia, Joint Secretary Namita Hazarika Saikia, former Minister Umesh Das, poet-lyricist Rupak Majumdar, and Borkakati's daughter-in-law Jyotsna Borkakati, along with a large number of admirers, journalists, cultural personalities and well-wishers.
Adding a spiritual ambience to the occasion, women artistes of Shilpi Kanan Assam presented devotional Borgeet. The programme concluded with all those present observing a one-minute silence and offering prayers for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
Rajen Borkakati, a resident of New Amolapatty in Nagaon town, passed away on the morning of June 21 at the age of 94. Widely regarded as one of the pillars of Nagaon's journalistic, sporting and social landscape, his demise was mourned across Assam.
In recognition of his immense contribution to society, the Assam Legislative Assembly, at the commencement of its current session, adopted a condolence resolution in his honour. The official copy of the resolution was subsequently sent to Borkakati's family by Speaker Ranjit Kumar Dass, reflecting the State's respect and gratitude for his lifelong service.
Following the memorial programme, the Central Committee of Shilpi Kanan Assam formally inaugurated the preparations for its forthcoming Fourth Central Ras Mahotsav at the conference hall.
