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Veteran Journalist and Folk Artist Anuj Rajkhowa Passes Away

By SK Hasan |

eteran journalist, renowned folk artist, social organizer, and retired teacher Anuj Rajkhowa passed away on Monday night at Geleki Primary Health Centre under Nazira Co-District following a prolonged neurological illness. He was 67.

Born in Geleki in 1958, Rajkhowa was the son of freedom fighter late Garejai Rajkhowa. A multifaceted personality, he made significant contributions to journalism, education, culture, sports, and social service over a career spanning more than five decades.

Rajkhowa began his journalism career in 1974 and worked with leading Assamese newspapers, including Dainik Janambhumi, Ajir Asom, The Sentinel, and Asomiya Pratidin. He also served as founder secretary of the Nazira Press Club and played a key role in strengthening journalism in the region.

A distinguished exponent of Bihu and various Indian folk dance forms, he earned numerous accolades as a performer, choreographer, judge, and cultural organizer. He represented Assam at cultural events across the country and abroad and appeared regularly on Doordarshan programmes. As a teacher, he served at Nazira Namati Higher Secondary School and Geleki Tribeni High School, inspiring generations of students.

Throughout his life, Rajkhowa received 33 awards for excellence in journalism, culture, and social service, including the Abhiruchi Best Sports Journalist Award and Best Investigative Journalist honours from The Sentinel and Ajir Asom.

His mortal remains were brought to the Nazira Press Club, where journalists, public representatives, and members of various organizations paid their last respects. He was later cremated at his native village in the presence of hundreds of mourners.

With his passing, Nazira has lost one of its most respected cultural ambassadors and veteran journalists, leaving behind a rich legacy in media, education, and the preservation of Assam's folk traditions.

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Freelance journalist, Nazira, Sibasagar district.
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