A cinematic farewell to a cultural icon
On 31 October 2025, the state of Assam witnessed the release of the much-anticipated film Roi Roi Binale, the final screen appearance of beloved singer-actor Zubeen Garg. The film, steeped in emotion and cultural significance, has generated a wave of enthusiasm and tribute across the region. According to reports, advance bookings have already broken records ahead of the nationwide rollout.
Zubeen Garg—not only starred but also wrote and composed the film—left the project as his final artistic statement. His wife, Garima Saikia, confirmed the release date and underscored the personal significance of the project.
This release marks the last appearance of Zubeen Garg—an artist whose music, acting, and activism have shaped the cultural identity of Assam for over three decades.
Why this release matters
A heartfelt tribute and cultural milestone
Roi Roi Binale is more than just a film. It stands as a lasting tribute to Zubeen Garg’s legacy in music and Assamese cinema. Many fans and observers see it as a way to celebrate his life and artistry even after his sudden passing in September 2025.
Across Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, and Jorhat, long queues formed outside cinemas hours before dawn. Fans carried posters, lit candles, and sang Zubeen’s evergreen hits such as Ya Ali and Maya.
Historical box-office response and national reach
Even before release, the film registered nearly ₹50 lakh in pre-release sales—an unprecedented figure for Assamese cinema. Furthermore, theatres across Assam and beyond have scheduled early-morning shows, and the film is set for a nationwide release rather than just a regional rollout.
Behind the scenes: Making the final film
Long-gestated project with deep involvement
The film’s journey began as early as 2007 but gained momentum only recently. Zubeen Garg wrote the story, composed the music and shaped his character—a blind artist navigating love, loss and creativity. Director Rajesh Bhuyan revealed that recording and post-production were largely completed just days before Zubeen’s untimely departure abroad.
Emotional resonance in key scenes
In a poignant twist, the final shot of the trailer mirrors Zubeen’s last recorded moments—felt by many as an unplanned yet deeply symbolic connection to his life and work. His original voice is featured in the film, preserving his artistic presence for posterity.
Release day and audience reception
Emotional audiences, early‐morning shows
Cinema halls in Assam rolled out shows as early as 4.25 a.m. to accommodate overwhelming demand. The fan response has already made headlines.
Government support and cultural recognition
In a significant gesture, the Assam government announced that its share of GST revenue from the film would be donated to the Kalaguru Artiste Foundation to support artists and cultural initiatives—a tribute to Zubeen’s legacy.
What this means for Assamese cinema
Roi Roi Binale sets a new benchmark not just because of the content, but also its ambition. With nationwide release and record bookings, the film signals that regional cinema can engage audiences beyond local markets. It also reinforces how a cultural icon’s final project can galvanise a community and industry.
Moreover, for fans of Zubeen Garg—and for lovers of Assamese culture—it gives one last chance to experience his creative vision on the big screen.
Critical acclaim and fan reactions
Early reviews praise Roi Roi Binale for its soulful music, strong visuals, and emotional depth. Critics from The Sentinel Assam and Pratidin Time described it as a “poetic farewell wrapped in melody.”
Fans especially loved the soundtrack—entirely composed and sung by Zubeen—which includes the poignant title track Roi Roi Binale and the romantic ballad Senehar Kobita.
The legacy continues
Zubeen Garg’s influence transcends cinema. Known for blending rock, folk, and Bihu traditions, his career spanned over 25 albums and 100 films in multiple languages.
This final release stands as both a celebration and conclusion of that legacy—one that will echo in the hearts of millions of fans. As audiences leave theatres, many describe the experience as “a final concert in the dark.”
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