Biju Phukan, who has appeared in over eighty Assamese and Bengali films in his decades-long career, has passed away at the age of 70.
The celebrated actor was suffering from heart and breathing problems, and was admitted to the hospital at 4:30 pm on Wednesday before passing at around 6:15 pm.
The actor has appeared in many films since his first role in Dr. Bezbarua in 1970, such as Baruar Songshar and Aranya. An established hero of the Assamese film industry, his death has been mourned by Assam Governor Professor Jagdish Mukhi.
"With his death, a void has been created which will be hard to fill. I extend my condolences to the bereaved family and his fans. May his soul rest in peace," Governor Mukhi said in a statement.
Actor Samar Hazarika also mourned the loss of Phukan by saying, "Assam has lost a true actor and his death has created a void in the industry. We have suffered an irreparable loss. I have no words to express my feelings..."