Guwahati: A pall of gloom descended on Assam today as the state bid adieu to one of its brightest burning stars, the eternal songstress Archana Mahanta.
Mahanta, who had suffered a brain stroke in July in the midst of the coronavirus-induced lockdown, was in a 'critical condition' for more than a month in a Guwahati hospital, and she finally breathed her last on August 27 after a long and arduous battle for her life.
Wife of the renowned singer Khagen Mahanta, who passed away in June of 2014, Achana is survived by her son Angaraag 'Papon' Mahanta and daughter Kingkini.
Reacting to the singer's death, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal wrote on Twitter that he is "anguished." after learning of the star's demise. "Anguished at the demise of renowned Assamese folk singer Archana Mahanta baidew. Today, we have lost a shining star among the cultural stalwarts of the state. I offer my deepest condolences and join all her well-wishers and fans in prayers for the departed soul", a tweet sent out from the CM's official handle read.
Archana Mahanta solidified her position as one of the mainstays in the music profession in Assam with performances that shall forever remain etched in the memory of the Assamese people. Pairing up with her husband Khagen Mahanta, Archana would deliver the most melodious folk tunes that smelt, tasted, and breathed the essence of 'Assam.'
The pair, at one point of time, became synonymous with 'Bihu' the folk festival of the Assamese community, that is celebrated with song, dance, and good cheer.
After the news that the singer had suffered a brain stroke came to light, the entire state joined hands in praying for the 72-year-old's speedy recovery.
"Concerned over the news of eminent Assamese singer Archana Mahanta Baideu illness. My prayers for her quick recovery", the state's Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal wrote.
The newer generation of Assamese entertainment industry stars has also expressed grief at the passing of the beloved singer.
Aimee Baruah, a noted actress from the state, wrote on Twitter that Mahanta's death is a huge loss for all. "Words may not suffice to express my heartfelt sorrow that I feel for the passing away of Veteran Assamese Singer Archana Mahanta. She breathed her last at Health City Hospital, Ghy. She Was suffering from brain stroke", Mahanta wrote.
Son 'Papon', who could not be immediately by his mother's side after she suffered the stroke as he was stuck amid the lockdown, acknowledging the outpourings of love, wrote on social media, "Thank you for your prayers for the speedy recovery of my mother. She is a fighter and I am sure with everyone's love and prayers she'll come out of the condition she is in due to a stroke she had! Please keep sending your positive energies."
Unfortunately, the prayers and the wishes did not prove to be enough as the 'Shilika o' singer finally succumbed to days after a month-long battle with her affliction.
The entire team of The Sentinel Digital pays tribute to the singer after her demise. May her soul rest in eternal peace.