Sangeet Natak Akademi award-winning Bodo artiste Khirod Khakhlari no more

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Noted Sangeet Natak Akademi Award-winning Bodo artiste (dance and music) Khirod Khakhlari passed away at the GMCH (Gauhati Medical College and Hospital) on Thursday. He was 96. He was a resident of Kalyankuchi, Dalbari, Satgaon, in Guwahati.

Born in 2926 at Madalgram in the state, he underwent training in traditional Bodo dance under Yudistbir Hazowari and acquired proficiency in playing the Kbom drum under the guidance of Sambaru Bodo. He was one of the most accomplished exponents of Bodo dance and music. He performed numerous performances with his troupe all over the country.

He established the Bathow Afat Krishti Sangha, a Guwahati-based cultural organization, to propagate Bodo dance and music. He trained many Bodo artistes in the organization.

He received Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2005. Former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam presented him with the award on March 20, 2006, in New Delhi for his outstanding contribution to Bodo dance and music.

Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, BTC CEM Promod Boro and many others condoled his death.

In a condolence message, Pegu said, "I condoled the demise of the Bodo artiste of repute. I pray for his eternal peace."

BTC CEM Promod Boro said, "Deeply pained to learn of the unfortunate demise of Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Khirod Khakhlari. He was one of the most accomplished exponents of Bodo dance and music. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members!"

Meanwhile, the mortal remains of the artiste were consigned to flames at the crematorium of the Satgaon Dolbari Bodo Society. On behalf of BTC CEM Promod Boro, BTC's EM (culture) Daobiosa Boro, Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS) president Toren Boro, former BSS vice president Kamala Kanta Mushahary and others were present at the cremation.

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