Prominent Cultural Activist Adya Sarma Dies At 86

Renowned Cultural Activist Adya Sarma

Assam’s renowned cultural activist, Adya Sarma, died on Sunday at his residence in Nalbari.

He was 86.

Born in 1929 at Khudra Makhibaha village in Nalbari district, Adya Sarma started the era of mobile theater in Assam with his relentless efforts and skill.

He started the famous “Nalbari Art School,” an Art institution previously known as “Rang Ghar.”

In 1968, Adya Sarma started the Bhagyadevi theate, which ushered in the mobile theatre movement in Nalbari District. There are now five active mobile theatres, which are now a big part of the cultural life of Nalbari.

Assam’s government presented him with a lifetime achievement award for being the pioneer of Assam mobile theater.

“Rather than being in the glare of media, Sarma prefers to live in his own world of colours and creations. His sustenance and inspirations have been his paintings and sculptures, leading all alone the life of aesthetics – something never to be found in anyone except someone who is so much devoted to arts like him.” – National Informatics Centre

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and several organizations including Assam state BJP, AGP, AASU, AJYCP paid homage to the renowned artist.

“Sarma’s death is a huge loss for Assam’s cultural field,” All Assam Students Union advisor Dr Samujjal Bhattacharyee said.

adya sarma
Adya Srma, also known as Guruji