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Assam's prominent film actor Biju Phukan passed away at a private hospital in Guwahati on Wednesday.
Phukan, who was suffering from cardiac ailments for last few days, was admitted to the Apollo Hospital in Guwahati around 4.30 p.m on Wednesday. The doctors said he breathed his last around 6.15 p.m.
"Phukan was suffering from breathing problems for last few days," family sources said.
While Phukan made his debut in the industry with Dr. Bezbaruah in 1970, the last film he acted in was Door released in 2016. His first role as the lead actor in Baruar Songshar followed by Aranya (1971) established him as a hero in the industry. Aranya was also adjudged the Best Regional Film at the National Film Awards.
Assam Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi condoled the death of actor.
Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal mourned the demise of the actor, saying: "I am grieved and saddened by the sudden demise of Biju Phukan who is largely responsible for promoting Assamese film industry and brought it to the present status," the Chief Minister said in a message.
The Media Adviser to Assam Chief Minister, Hrishikesh Goswami, visited the hospital immediately after the demise of the veteran actor and paid his tributes.
"We have grown up seeing Biju Phukan's acting. Phukan was personally very close to the Chief Minister and me as well. It is a great loss to the industry as well as to the society as a whole," said Goswami, adding that the veteran actor would be cremated with full state honour.
Veteran actor Samar Hazarika said: "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..."
Several politicians and celebrities took to social media to condole the death of the actor.
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