Noted Assamese actor-singer passes away in city

SHILLONG, Jan 9: Veteran Assamese actor and singer, Jnanada Kakoti, passed away in Shillong on Wednesday night. She was 93.
According to a statement here, Kakoti, who is also a former Rotaractor, started her acting career in the year 1949 and acted in numerous Assamese and a few Bengali films.
She was nominated in the Berlin Film Festival in 1960 for her popular film Puberun.
“She was actively associated with the cosmopolitan Shillong society and the different Namghar and Bihu Communities here even till last year. She is survived by her daughter,” the statement said.
Kakoti’s last rites were performed at Shillong Electric Crematorium on Thursday.
Shillong-based group condoles demise
The Shillong Socio-Cultural Assamese Students’ Association has condoled the demise of the veteran actress.
In a statement, the association recalled Kakoti’s contributions to the Assamese film industry. “She was the first Assamese actress to receive the President’s Silver Medal from the President of India in 1960 and recipient of several other prizes, making her an inspiring personality whose contributions to the welfare and cultural enrichment of our society will always be remembered,” the association said.
Recalling Kakoti’s contributions in promoting Assamese culture and values in Shillong, the association said, “Her dedication to community service and her unwavering commitment to fostering unity among the Assamese diaspora in the region set a remarkable example for all of us. She was not just a supporter but also a well-wisher of our association, and her encouragement has been a source of strength to us in many ways.”