Beyond the Notes: The Life, Art, and Final Struggles of Assam’s Flutist Dipak Sarma

Eminent Assamese flutist Dipak Sarma, celebrated for his soulful and enchanting flute compositions that defined an era of Assamese music, passed away in Chennai early Monday morning. He was deeply mourned across the state’s cultural fraternity and beyond.

According to reports, Sarma breathed his last at around 6:15 AM in a Chennai hospital, where he had been undergoing advanced treatment for a prolonged illness. The veteran musician had earlier been admitted to a hospital in Guwahati last month before being shifted to Chennai as his condition deteriorated.

Born in Panigaon village of Nalbari district, Dipak Sarma grew up surrounded by the rhythms and melodies of rural Assam — influences that shaped his unique musical identity. Over the years, he carved a niche for himself as one of Assam’s most revered flutists, earning widespread recognition for his magical command over the instrument and his ability to infuse deep emotion into every note.

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His compositions, often blending classical finesse with Assamese folk sensibilities, became synonymous with the state’s musical soul. Through his artistry, Sarma not only elevated the flute’s prominence in Assamese music but also inspired generations of musicians to pursue the instrument with renewed passion.

However, despite his immense contribution to Assamese culture, the latter part of Sarma’s life was marked by serious financial hardships. His deteriorating health added to his struggles, leading him to seek public assistance for medical treatment. In a heartfelt Facebook post dated January 18, 2023, the maestro revealed his need for an expensive liver repair operation, expressing hope that with timely support, he would once again be able to hold his flute and perform.

Moved by his situation, earlier Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended a helping hand in October 2025, announcing a financial aid of ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to support his medical care. A cheque of ₹5,00,001 was issued through the State Bank of India’s Assam Secretariat Branch.

At the time, the Chief Minister had remarked, “Dipak Sarma is a valuable asset to Assam. Our prayers are with him, and we hope for his speedy recovery. We urge everyone to join us in wishing him good health and strength during this time.”

Unfortunately, despite the collective efforts and wishes, the maestro’s health continued to decline.

Meanwhile, expressing profound grief over his demise, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma took to X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Deeply anguished to learn about the untimely demise of eminent flutist Dipak Sarma, who has contributed immensely towards Assamese music and popularised flute as a musical instrument. My sincere condolences to the bereaved family members and well-wishers. Om Shanti.”

The news of his passing has left a deep void in Assam’s cultural landscape. Musicians, artists, and admirers have poured in tributes, remembering Sarma as a humble genius whose melodies could move hearts and transcend boundaries.

Though his life ended amid struggles, Dipak Sarma’s music will forever remain a timeless testament to his devotion to art and his love for Assam. His flute may have fallen silent, but its echoes will continue to resonate across generations.