Noted poet Nilmani Phookan dies at 90

Nilmani Phookan was a poet from Assam who won the Jnanpith Award in 2021. He died on Thursday morning due to age-related ailments, aged 90. Phookan is survived by his wife, two sons, and daughter. He received the Jnanpith Award in December 2021 for his contributions to literature. He was born on September 10, 1933, in Dergaon, Golaghat district. He was admitted to the Gauhati Medical College Hospital on Wednesday with breathing difficulties. Phookan is revered as a "sagelike presence" in Assamese literature and is known for his poetic creations which are loved by everyone. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, "Nilmani Phookan was among the most prolific of writers and one of the most glittering lights of Assamese literature who enriched the literary world with his poetic creations. The contributions he made to enrich the literature of the state will remain memorable." Phookan's creations knew no bounds and are adored by everyone. Sarma noted that Phookan's death will create a void in the poetic world, but he is hopeful that his literary creations will act as a source of inspiration for the new generation.