BARPETA, Aug 31 - Phulkumari Kalita, a scholar of folk culture, writer and retired professor of BH College, Howli in Barpeta district and a resident of Barpetaroad, passed away on August 29 after a brief illness. She was 71.
Kalita devoted her life towards research in folk literature and culture and contributed a lot through her writing. Sakhi Oi Sakhi, Ayatir Uruli, Guagacha Satrar Samu Abhash, Lok Sanskritir Subash, Amar Satra Amar Oitijya are some of her works. She also edited a book titled Lokakrishti Aru Nari, besides writing essays in newspapers and magazines.
The AASU honoured her with the Pratima Barua Pandey Award. Her contribution was recognised by AASU, Batpetaroad unit and Barpetaroad Sahitya Sabha when the two organisations installed her statue during her lifetime in Barpetaroad town. During her last days, she visited her daughter in Digboi due to her treatment and breathed her last there.
In his condolence message, state BJP president Ranjeet Kumar Dass said Assam has lost a great intellectual. Hrishikesh Goswami, media advisor to the Chief Minister, termed the demise as an �irreparable loss to the folk culture and literature of the state�. Many organisations have also condoled her death.