Dipak kumar Kalita
Dipak Kumar Kalita (born 22 December 1971) is an Indian Assamese children’s author, playwright, theatre director, and teacher. With more than sixty children’s stories and novels published in Mouchak, Assam’s most widely read children’s magazine, Kalita has become a central figure in Assamese literature for young readers. Alongside his teaching career, he has contributed significantly to Assamese drama and theatre, writing 22 plays and directing more than 200 one-act dramas, full-length productions, and radio plays.
Early life and education
Dipak Kumar Kalita was born on 22 December 1971 in Namrup, Assam. He pursued his higher education in Assamese literature and obtained a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Assamese. His early passion for storytelling and drama shaped his career as both an educator and a cultural contributor.
Career in children’s literature
Kalita began writing at an early age. His first children’s novel, Mahakash Mahakal, was published in 1987 in Mouchak, the leading children’s magazine in Assam. That same year, while still in class ten, his novel Ajagar was published, marking the start of his literary journey.
Since then, he has written and published over sixty children’s stories and novels in Mouchak. Some of his most notable works include:
- Mahakash Mahakal
- Amricar Putola
- Moromot Nicolash
- Kaath Putolar Dekhat
- Sachin Aahhisil
- Apur Parthivi
- Obikalar Hanhi
- King Kong
- Moi Bhute Koisu
- Rocky Gusi Gol
- Ranipukhurir Bhut Tu
- Akhan Preety Cricket Khel
- Bhutor Meeting Ot Oghoton
Several of his works have been recognized nationally. The National Book Trust of India has published six of his books, including:
- Moromor Banhu
- Ek Aasil Casini
- Ronga Pori
- Beilir Khong Uthise
- Pyara Dost
- Phatka
His acclaimed novel Maramar Bandhu has been translated into 13 regional Indian languages, extending his readership across the country.
Theatre and drama
In addition to children’s literature, Kalita has had a prolific career in drama and theatre. Over the last 40 years, he has worked as an actor, playwright, and director. He has written 22 plays, including:
- Ajaak Manuh Akhan Aranya
- Kath Putolar Dekhot
- Ramdhenur Rang
- Hou Je Urise Swaraj Nichan
- Kangha Badhar Aakhora
- Memsaahaebor Bhem
- Shor Ulaise Shor
- Aami Aakakh Suboloy Jaau
- Mahakalar Proshtan
- Prithibir Akhukh
- Dhumuha Pakhir Jaak
- Birangana Jaymoti Kuwari
As a director, Kalita has staged over 200 one-act plays, 15 full-length dramas, and 3 radio dramas. Notably, his radio plays Udaybhanur Charitya, Ekaa Bekaa Brityo, and Dhumuha Pakhir Jaak were broadcast by Akashvani Dibrugarh during its drama festivals. He has also directed two VCD films and five short films.
Publications
Seventeen of his Assamese books have been published, spanning novels, short stories, biographies, prose, and poetry. Highlights include:
- Ajagar (Novel)
- Uttkantha Bangola (Novel)
- Lata Mangeshkar (Biography)
- Bhutor Hoite Anikha (Short story collection)
- Heujia Hopun Aataar Paache Paache (Novel)
- Moromor Baraxunot Titaar Dina (Poetry)
- Baali Ghora Soraair Khoj (Novel)
- Karmajogi Hilpi Pranor Abhineta Aftabul Hussain (Prose)
Awards and recognition
Kalita’s contributions have earned him numerous awards, including:
- Hiyar Ramdhenu Sishu Sahitya Award (2021)
- Prerona Kabya Sadhana Award (2022)
- Best Children Book Award (2023)
- Sabda-Silpa Sadhana Award (2023)
- District Teacher Award (2023)
- Natya Sirumoni Award (2025)
Personal life
Dipak Kumar Kalita is married to Mrs. Himakhi Kalita, and they have a daughter, Miss Prasujya Proyashi Kalita. His parents were Late Chana Ram Kalita and Late Rose Buragohain.
Legacy
Balancing his career as an assistant teacher with his passion for literature and theatre, Dipak Kumar Kalita has inspired generations of readers and audiences in Assam. His stories, plays, and dramas continue to influence Assamese cultural and literary traditions.