Homen Borgohain: Life, Works, and Legacy
Homen Borgohain was one of the most respected writers and journalists from Assam. He played a very important role in shaping modern Assamese literature. His writings touched the hearts of readers and made them think deeply about life, society, and human emotions. Even today, his works are widely read and admired by people of all ages.
Early Life of Homen Borgohain
Homen Borgohain was born on 7 December 1932 in Dhakuwakhana, located in Lakhimpur district of Assam. He grew up in a simple rural environment. His childhood in the village had a deep influence on his thinking and later on his writing style.
He completed his school education at Dibrugarh Government Boys’ Higher Secondary School. After that, he went to Guwahati to study at Cotton College, which was one of the most prestigious colleges in Assam.
From a young age, he was very interested in reading books. He loved literature and spent a lot of time understanding human nature and society. These early experiences helped him become a great writer later in life.
Personal Life
Homen Borgohain married Nirupama Tamuli in 1958. She was also a well-known Assamese writer and feminist. Their relationship was special because both of them were deeply involved in literature.
Together, they wrote a novel called “Puwar Purobi Sandhyar Bibhash”. This is considered one of the first joint novels in Assamese literature, and it remains unique even today.
However, their personal relationship did not last forever, and they separated in 1977. Despite this, both continued to contribute greatly to Assamese literature.
Career Journey
Civil Service Career
In 1955, Homen Borgohain joined the Assam Civil Service. It was a stable and respected job. But his passion for writing and journalism was much stronger.
In 1968, he made a bold decision to leave his government job and become a full-time journalist. This decision changed his life and helped him become one of the most influential voices in Assam.
Journalism Career
Homen Borgohain had a long and successful career in journalism. He worked with many important newspapers and magazines.
He first edited the Assamese weekly newspaper Nilachal and later worked as the editor of another weekly called Nagarik.
Later, he became the editor-in-chief of the popular Assamese daily newspaper Amar Asom, where he worked from 2003 to 2015. His editorials were known for their honesty, clarity, and strong opinions.
After that, he joined Niyomiya Barta as editor-in-chief and continued working there until his death in 2021.
His writings in newspapers were not just news reports. They were powerful opinions that made people think about society, politics, and human values.
Literary Career
Homen Borgohain was not only a journalist but also a brilliant writer. He wrote novels, short stories, essays, and poetry. His writing style was simple but very powerful.
He had a special ability to describe human emotions and social problems in a realistic way. His stories often showed the struggles of common people, both in villages and cities.
Famous Novels
Homen Borgohain wrote many important novels. Some of his most famous works include:
- Xaudor Puteke Nau Meli Zay
- Halodhiya Soraye Bau Dhan Khay
- Ostorag
- Timir Tirtha
- Motsyogondha
- Xubala
- Bixonnota
- Nixongota
Among these, “Halodhiya Soraye Bau Dhan Khay” is one of his most popular novels. It was later made into a film directed by Jahnu Barua, which won the National Award for Best Film in 1988.
Autobiographical Works
Homen Borgohain also wrote about his own life. His autobiographies are very popular because they give readers a deep understanding of his thoughts and experiences.
Some of his autobiographical works include:
- Atmanuxondhan
- Mur Xangbadik Ziwan
- Dhumuha Aru Ramdhenu
- Mur Hridoy Ekhon Zudhyokhetro
These books are not just about his life but also about society, journalism, and human struggles.
Writing Style and Themes
The writing of Homen Borgohain is known for its simplicity and depth. He used easy language, but his ideas were very powerful.
Main Themes in His Works:
- Human Relationships
He often wrote about the relationship between parents and children, husband and wife, and society. - Social Problems
His stories showed issues like poverty, inequality, and moral conflicts. - Inner Struggles
Many of his characters go through emotional and psychological struggles. - Rural and Urban Life
He beautifully described both village life and city life in Assam.
His famous novel “Pita Putra” is a great example of his deep understanding of human relationships.
Awards and Recognition
Homen Borgohain received many awards for his contribution to literature and journalism.
Major Awards:
- Sahitya Akademi Award for the novel Pita Putra
- Assam Valley Literary Award
- Nilamoni Phukan Award
- Srimanta Sankardev Award
- Matshendra Nath Award
However, in 2015, he returned his Sahitya Akademi Award. He did this as a protest against growing intolerance in society. This showed his courage and strong principles.
Contribution to Assamese Literature
Homen Borgohain made a huge contribution to Assamese literature. He brought new ideas and fresh thinking into writing.
He helped readers understand society in a better way. His works are still studied in schools and colleges.
He also inspired many young writers to write honestly and fearlessly.
Role in Assam Sahitya Sabha
Homen Borgohain also served as the President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha from 2001 to 2002.
During his time, he worked to promote Assamese language and literature. He encouraged new writers and helped strengthen the literary culture of Assam.
Later Life and Death
In his later years, Homen Borgohain continued writing and working as a journalist. Even at an old age, he remained active and dedicated to his work.
He passed away on 12 May 2021 at the age of 88 due to complications from COVID-19. His death was a great loss for Assam and the literary world.
Legacy and Memory
After his death, the Government of Assam decided to honour him every year. From 2021, a special award is given on his birthday, 7th December, to selected writers.
This shows how much respect and importance he holds in Assamese culture.
His books continue to inspire readers and writers. His ideas are still relevant in today’s world.
Interesting Facts About Homen Borgohain
- He left a government job to follow his passion for writing.
- He co-wrote one of the rare joint novels in Assamese literature.
- His novel was turned into a National Award-winning film.
- He returned a major award to stand for his beliefs.
- He worked as a journalist until the end of his life.
Why Homen Borgohain is Important
Homen Borgohain is important because he was not just a writer but also a thinker. He made people question society and understand life better.
His writings are still useful for students, readers, and researchers. He showed that literature can change the way people think.
Conclusion
Homen Borgohain was a great figure in Assamese literature and journalism. His life was full of dedication, courage, and creativity. From a small village in Assam, he became one of the most respected writers in India. His novels, essays, and editorials continue to guide and inspire people. Even after his death, his legacy lives on through his works, which remind us to think deeply, live honestly, and understand society with an open mind.
FAQs about Homen Borgohain
1. Who was Homen Borgohain?
Homen Borgohain was a famous Assamese writer, journalist, and editor known for his novels, essays, and strong editorial writings.
2. When was Homen Borgohain born?
He was born on 7 December 1932 in Dhakuwakhana, Lakhimpur district of Assam.
3. What are the famous works of Homen Borgohain?
Some of his famous works include Pita Putra, Halodhiya Soraye Bau Dhan Khay, Timir Tirtha, and Motsyogondha.
4. Which award did Homen Borgohain receive?
He received the Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel Pita Putra, along with many other awards.
5. Why did he return the Sahitya Akademi Award?
He returned the award in 2015 as a protest against growing intolerance in Indian society.
6. What was his role in journalism?
He worked as editor and editor-in-chief for newspapers like Nilachal, Nagarik, Amar Asom, and Niyomiya Barta.
7. When did Homen Borgohain die?
He died on 12 May 2021 at the age of 88 due to COVID-19 complications.
8. What is special about his writing?
His writing is simple, deep, and reflects real-life situations, human emotions, and social issues.
