Assam bids farewell to flute maestro Dipak Sarma with over 100 flutists paying musical tribute

The air at Seuj Sangha in Ambikagiri Nagar turned soulful on Tuesday, November 4 as the haunting strains of the flute filled the atmosphere, a final tribute to the man who had made it sing like the voice of Assam itself. Between 10 am and 2 pm, hundreds of admirers, artists, and cultural dignitaries gathered to pay their last respects to internationally acclaimed flutist Dipak Sarma, whose music transcended borders and generations.

As Sarma’s mortal remains arrived at the venue, silence enveloped the crowd. The poignant sound of a bamboo flute echoed softly, merging with tearful prayers. Draped in the traditional Assamese gamosa and adorned with floral tributes, the late maestro lay in repose a symbol of devotion to an art he had served all his life.

From young music students to veteran artists, mourners stood in long queues to offer their final homage. Members of various cultural organisations and prominent figures from Assam’s artistic fraternity recalled their memories of Sarma the gentle, humble artist who preferred the quiet language of music to the noise of fame.

Earlier in the morning, the flutist’s mortal remains were flown from Chennai to Guwahati aboard a special chartered flight. The flight departed at 5 AM and landed shortly after sunrise. His body was taken directly to his Ambikagiri Nagar residence, where family members conducted traditional household rituals before the public homage commenced at Seuj Sangha.

The final rites will be held at the Navagraha crematorium, marking the end of an era for Assam’s musical landscape.

Sarma, aged 57, passed away at 6:15 AM on Monday, November 3, at a Chennai hospital after a prolonged battle with a rare liver ailment. He had been undergoing treatment for several months — first in Guwahati and later in Chennai for advanced care.

A musician of rare depth and emotional sensitivity, Dipak Sarma was celebrated for blending classical precision with the rustic beauty of Assamese folk traditions. His flute could evoke the sound of rain, the rhythm of life, and the stillness of nature an art that spoke directly to the soul. Over the years, he represented Assam and India on international stages, earning wide acclaim for his artistry and humility.