In Memoriam: A man with a golden heart – My dearest Jadu Borta

It is true that we are shaped by the people who are close to our heart. We love and admire those people and look up to them as our source of inspiration. It’s really hard to express our deepest feelings for someone who was so near and dear to all of us. There are very few people who have created a deep impact in our life and we look up to them as our role model. My biggest inspiration and the person I have got immense love and respect is my dearest Jadu Borta. An actor, musician, composer, author and philanthropist but for me my loving Borta.

Born to a humble family in Uzan Bazar riverside to Nabin Chandra Sarma and Dhanada Devi in 1943, Jagadish Sarma known to us as Jadu Borta was a very helpful and amiable person with a positive outlook towards life. It would not be an exaggeration to say that while writing about my beloved Borta, ‘too much would perhaps be too little.’ Not only was he a man of dynamic personality with exceptional and extraordinary qualities, but the uncanny idiosyncrasies of his unique personality could very well prove a daunting task for someone trying to make a neat sum up of one of the finest persons that I have ever come across in my life. Whenever I think of him the one thing that immediately comes to my mind is love, affection, respect, regards and warmth. Here I would like to begin by saying that Jadu Borta was a great source of inspiration for everyone in the family. Be it any occasion Magh Bihu, Bohag Bihu, Durga Puja, Diwali or any family get together it was my habit to go to him and seek his blessings. Married to my Bu Borma in 1981 Jadu Borta was the most funny and hilarious person that I have ever encountered in my life.

He was a very humble, down-to-earth, simple, cool, composed person with a pleasing personality which appealed to all and sundry. It’s only because of these charismatic qualities that he was loved and admired across all sections of the society. He was the most loving, caring and benevolent person that one can ever come across in life. His only son Phusiy is my childhood friend. He had a very charming personality and his personality was such that everyone would turn their heads towards him and were simply blown by his simplicity, grace and composure. It’s really hard to forget someone who gave so much love and affection. His memories have now been a treasure and he will always be loved and missed beyond measure. I have always admired his kindness, unconditional love and loving nature. Because of his humble nature, generosity, kindness and compassion he was loved by all.

His philosophy and ideology of life is to give love, take love and spread love and happiness to everyone in this world. Think good, talk good and do good to others then automatically great things will happen in your life. He always wanted me to be the best in everything I do in my life. I had literally spent my entire childhood with him. I really admired the way he used to whisper prayers while giving blessings. Borta you made my childhood beautiful.

Now coming to his achievements in the professional field. He has contributed a lot in the cultural domain. His contribution in the cultural sphere is immense. He has acted in 3 Assamese feature films namely Ashroy (1979), Koka Deuta Nati Aru Hati (1983) & Ajola Kokai (1989). Out of which Koka Deuta Nati Aru Hati directed by Nip Baruah was a silver jubilee hit. His brilliant portrayal in the role of Gajel was highly appreciated by the viewers and critics.

Some of the drama scripts which were written by him were critically acclaimed. They were mostly children plays like Khelu Aha, Ami Kajiya Nokoru, Sunga Siy Xupa, Aaitar Xadhu Xune, Lachit Borphukon, Matri Bhakto Sivaji & Ashok. Then there were also some other plays which he has written like 113 Sri Sri Makardhoj Baba, Piriti Kothalor Etha, Ganatantra Bonam Prajatantra, Boliputra Ban & Kihor Dukhiya Hoba.

He has also acted in various popular plays like Dipannita, Lovita, Bhogjora, A View From The Bridge, Xorapatot Basanta, Lachit Borphukan & 113 Sri Sri Mokordhoj Baba. His power as an actor is reflected in these roles. His writing and acting prowess were not limited to only stage or films. He also made his mark in some short films of Doordarshan like Raijor Sewak where his portrayal of MLA Goswami earned him accolades and rave reviews. His character of Puwali in the critically acclaimed radio drama Lovita too earned him praise from viewers and critics. His portrayal of Ajon Abhineta in the English play Broken Mirror organised by Evergreen Club earned him laurels. He also made his mark by his superb acting in Du-Sur.

Today, July 29, on the day of your Adya Shraddha when you are not there amongst us I can feel the emptiness that comes with your wonderful memories and stirs a refreshing feeling from within that says “You are my friend, philosopher and guide and I will miss you forever”. All the beautiful moments that I have spent with you shall remain together forever etched in our hearts. I pray to the Almighty Lord for eternal peace of his departed soul.

Chandradittya Sarma

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