With profound sorrow, we announce the sudden passing of Dr. Malini Nair on September 16 at 6:30 am, following a heart attack. She was 60 years old. Her departure has left an irreplaceable void in her family and in the countless lives she touched with love, wisdom, and generosity.
Born in Kottayam, Kerala, Malini was the daughter of Gopalakrishnan Nair, a retired officer of the Post & Telegraph Department, and Dr. Sarada Nair, a librarian at Guwahati University.
From her father, she inherited compassion and generosity, and from her mother, a deep respect for education and resilience. She grew up in a close-knit family with her siblings, remaining bonded through life’s journey and their cherished “Happy Family” WhatsApp group, where daily greetings and moments of joy kept them connected.
A brilliant student, Malini completed her schooling at St. Mary’s School, Guwahati, graduated with first rank from Handique Girls’ College, and again secured first rank in her post-graduation.
She went on to earn a doctorate and built a distinguished academic career. For more than three decades, she served at Sipajhar College, where she was considered the heart and soul of the institution.
Her dedication played a vital role in elevating academic standards and securing NAAC accreditation for the college.
Even after retirement, her passion for teaching never waned; she continued serving at Sipajhar and had recently joined Mangaldoi Women’s College.
Her influence as an educator extended far beyond academics. Malini supported underprivileged students financially, mentored them in careers, and even assisted in their marriages.
The overwhelming grief and tributes from students, colleagues, and community members — with thousands attending her last rites — reflect the love and admiration she inspired.
Malini’s life was one of love and sacrifice. She shared a beautiful marriage with Debojyoti Dutta (Debo), Director of Census Operations, Assam.
Their bond, which blossomed during their university days, united Malini, a Malayalee, and Debo, an Assamese, in a marriage that harmonized cultures with affection and respect.
Together, they raised two children — Kaustabh Sai Krishna (Kannan), a student at TISS Guwahati, and Harshita Sai Lakshmi (Mili), pursuing law at the National Law School, Guwahati. Both names reflect her deep devotion to Sai Baba and family traditions.
Her heart, however, was large enough to extend beyond her own children.
Malini also adopted and supported the daughter of their longtime housemaid, ensuring her education and marriage. The housemaid, part of the family for three decades, mourns Malini’s passing alongside them.
Though born Malayalee, Malini wholeheartedly embraced Assamese culture.
She wore the Mekhala Chaddar with pride, generously shared her wardrobe with those in need, and was loved as a daughter by Assamese society.
She also maintained strong ties with her extended family in Kerala, always present at family gatherings.
Renowned for her hospitality, Malini’s kitchen was legendary. From South Indian classics to Assamese delicacies and homemade sweets, cakes, ladoos, pickles, and pithas, her cooking carried the warmth of her love. Visitors never left her home without both full hearts and full hands.
Her love for nature found expression in her home in Bezara, where she nurtured a lush garden of orchids, flowering plants, and fruit trees.
She especially adored jasmine, and in her memory, her colleagues will plant jasmine on the college campus — a fitting tribute to her life that spread fragrance and joy.
Malini is survived by her husband Debo, her children Kannan and Mili, her sisters Mallika and [your name], extended family in Kerala and Chennai, and the countless students and friends whose lives she enriched. She now reunites with her beloved parents in eternal peace.
Her life was a legacy of academic excellence, generosity, devotion, and love. She was not only a devoted wife, mother, and sister, but also a mentor, friend, and guide who transformed the lives of all who knew her.
Though her passing came too soon, her kindness, laughter, and spirit will live forever in the hearts of those she touched.
May her noble soul rest in eternal peace.
