Birth Centenary of Tarun Ram Phookun (1877-1939)

Tarun Ran Phookun, fondly known as ‘Deshabhakta,’ was born in Guwahati, Kamrup District of Assam, on January 22, 1877. His education began at Cotton Collegiate School in Guwahati and continued at Presidency College, Calcutta. Later, he pursued law at Inner Temple in London, earning distinction as a lawyer and eventually serving as a lecturer at Earle Law College in Guwahati.

Phookun emerged as a prominent figure in Assam’s political landscape. He was a key member of the Assam Association until 1920, the sole political organization in Assam at the time. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Assam Branch of the Indian National Congress in 1921 and served as its inaugural President.

During the Non-cooperation Movement, Phookun actively propagated Gandhi’s message across Assam, earning him a one-year rigorous imprisonment sentence in 1921. Following his release, he joined the Swaraj Party and was twice elected to the Central Legislative Assembly.

Beyond politics, Phookun contributed significantly to civic life in Assam. He chaired the Municipal Board and Local Board of Guwahati, initiating various programs for the welfare of underprivileged sections, including the establishment of a Leper Asylum during his tenure as Chairman of the Guwahati Municipal Board.

Phookun’s influence extended beyond politics and civic duties; he was also a distinguished orator and writer. He served as President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, a leading literary organization, and presided over the Assam Chhatra Sammelan in 1928.

Tarun Ram Phookun passed away on July 28, 1939, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership. In honor of his birth centenary, the Posts and Telegraphs Department is issuing a commemorative stamp, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation.