Ananda Mohan Bhagawati

Guwahati, March 26: Eminent Sattriya dance exponent and actor Ananda Mohan Bhagawati passed away at his Titabar residence in Jorhat this afternoon. He was 80.

Since 1956, Bhagawati, a former director of the state department of cultural affairs, was devoted to the development and promotion of Sattriya.

He gave a presentation on Sattriya dance at the India International Centre, New Delhi, and won accolades.

He was a member of the general committee of Sangeet Natak Akademi and a guest lecturer at the Bhatkhande College of Hindustani Music.

Besides his expertise on Sattriya, Bhagwati was also a good actor who proved his acumen in several films and dramas.

Actor Nipon Goswami expressed shock at the news of Bhagawati’s death and said Assam has lost one of the most brilliant and genuine artistes. He said this loss would not be compensated.

“Even though Bhagawatida was suffering for some time, his tremendous will power helped him to overcome many ailments. I saw him performing Sattriya with perfection even at the age of 80,” Goswami said.