The Tripura Legislative Assembly on Thursday held a special one-day session dedicated to paying heartfelt tributes to two distinguished personalities whose contributions left a lasting impact on public life and culture — former Minister Kartik Kanya Debbarma and legendary singer Asha Bhosle.
Opening the commemorative sitting, Speaker Rampada Jamatia informed the House of Debbarma’s demise on March 30 while she was undergoing treatment at the Cancer Hospital in Agartala. She was 72. Born in 1954, Debbarma began her journey in student activism before stepping into mainstream politics. She was elected from the Takarjala constituency in 1993 and went on to serve as Minister for Social Welfare and Social Education in the third Left Front government.
During her tenure, Debbarma worked extensively to promote women’s education and empowerment, uplift marginalized communities, and drive social awareness initiatives. Members of the Assembly remembered her as a committed public servant who dedicated her life to the welfare of society. The House extended its condolences to her family, acknowledging her enduring legacy in Tripura’s political and social landscape.
The Assembly also mourned the passing of Asha Bhosle, who died in Mumbai on April 12 at the age of 92. Remembered as the “Empress of Melody,” Bhosle’s voice transcended generations and linguistic boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on Indian music. She recorded songs in multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, and Punjabi, earning widespread admiration across the country and beyond.
Honoured with prestigious accolades such as the Padma Vibhushan and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Bhosle’s contribution to music was described as timeless. Members termed her passing an “irreparable loss” to India’s cultural heritage.
The House observed a two-minute silence in memory of both leaders, praying for eternal peace for their departed souls. The session reflected deep respect and admiration for two remarkable lives — one devoted to public service and social reform, the other to enriching the nation’s cultural and musical legacy.
