GUWAHATI, Dec 21 - Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of Assamese singer Dipali Barthakur, who passed away this afternoon.
�With the passing away of Dipali Barthakur Ji, we have lost an outstanding singer who made Assamese music and culture even more popular across India and the world. Her melodious songs will continue to enthral generations to come. Condolences to her family and countless admirers,� Modi tweeted.
Condolences began to pour in ever since the news of the death broke out.
Among the first to condole the death was Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi.
In a message, Prof Mukhi said, �Known as the Nightingale of Assam, the State has lost an able daughter with her death. She was an asset and her death is an irreparable loss for the society.� He said that although the artiste has left for her heavenly sojourn, she will continue to be an inspiration to the present and future generations of the State. The Governor prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also offered his condolences at the passing away of the noted singer.
In a statement mourning her death, he said, �Dipali Barthakur enriched Assamese culture through her invaluable contributions. Her scintillating voice enthralled generations of music lovers and her death is an irreparable loss to the society. I am deeply saddened by her demise and pray for eternal peace of the departed soul.� He also offered his heartfelt condolences to her bereaved family.
Sonowal also directed the Chief Secretary to take necessary steps for performing the last rites of the eminent singer with full State honours.
Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia, in a statement, said that he was deeply saddened by the death of the singer. �Her immortal songs would always remain in the heart of the people,� Saikia said.
State Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya and former Chief Minister Prafulla Mahanta expressed grief at the death and termed it an irreparable loss.
Prafulla Govinda Baruah, president of socio-cultural organisation Jyotirupa, and general secretary Naren Hazarika condoled the death of the eminent singer.
The All Assam Students� Union (AASU), pro-talks ULFA leader Anup Chetia, and several other organisations including the Sadou Asam Karmachari Parishad, Guwahati Senior Citizens� Association, and Pragjyoti Communications also condoled the death of the singer.
