Assamese singer Gayatri Hazarika dies at 44; Assam mourns a cultural icon

India Today

16-05-2025

India's music world has lost a gifted voice with the death of acclaimed Assamese singer Gayatri Hazarika, who died on Friday afternoon at the Nemcare Hospitals in Guwahati following a battle with colon cancer. She was 44.Hazarika was a prominent figure in Assam's cultural and musical landscape, known for her emotionally resonant voice and unique ability to fuse traditional Assamese melodies with contemporary sounds. Her death has left a deep void in the hearts of fans and fellow artists across the state and far beyond.advertisementShe first captivated audiences with the hauntingly beautiful track 'Xora Pate Pate Phagun Naame', a song that quickly became an anthem of Assamese music and cemented her place as a leading voice in the region. Her versatility shone through in other well-loved songs such as 'Rati Rati Mor Xoon' and 'Ohar Dore Ubhoti Aatori Gola,' which highlighted her emotional depth and vocal precision.Beyond playback singing, Hazarika was celebrated for her powerful live performances that drew audiences from across Assam. Her fan base, while deeply rooted in her home state, extended nationally through music streaming platforms like Wynk Music and Gaana, where her soulful discography remains accessible and beloved.Her death has triggered an outpouring of grief across Assam, with tributes flooding social media. On X, fans described her as a 'rare talent' and 'a voice of the people,' with many noting her strength during her illness.advertisementOfficials at Nemcare Hospital confirmed her passing, underscoring how deeply her presence had touched both medical staff and her wider community.Born and raised in Assam, Gayatri Hazarika was more than a singer. She was a cultural ambassador who carried the essence of Assamese music to a broader national audience. Her authenticity, warmth, and artistic integrity made her a beloved figure not only in the entertainment industry but also among the people of Assam, who saw in her a reflection of their cultural pride.