Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has assured that the Zubeen Garg legacy will remain untouched by political influence or division. Addressing a gathering in Guwahati on Sunday, Sarma paid heartfelt tribute to the late singer and cultural icon, stating that his contribution to Assam’s art and music transcends political boundaries.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Zubeen’s artistic journey, much like that of Bhupen Hazarika and Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, represented the soul of Assamese identity. “Zubeen Garg is not just a singer; he is a cultural movement in himself. His legacy will remain pure and apolitical,” Sarma said.
Read More: Tripura Civil Society Calls Bandh Over Tiprasa Accord, Infiltration
Remembering a Voice That United Assam
Zubeen Garg’s sudden demise in Singapore left the people of Assam and the entire Northeast in mourning. Fans across generations remember him not only for his music but also for his humanitarian work and fearless voice on social issues.
Speaking at the memorial event held at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Sarma described Zubeen as a bridge between tradition and modernity. “He was able to bring Assamese culture to a new global audience. Through his songs, he carried the message of unity and peace,” the Chief Minister said.
The event saw the presence of artists, musicians, and admirers from across the state, all gathered to pay respect to one of Assam’s most beloved voices. Many attendees broke down as they shared personal memories of the singer’s humility and generosity.
Parallels with Bhupen Hazarika and Jyoti Prasad Agarwala
Drawing parallels with Assamese legends Bhupen Hazarika and Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, Sarma said all three shared a deep love for their land and people. “Bhupen da, Jyoti Prasad, and Zubeen stood for the same ideals — harmony, inclusiveness, and artistic freedom. They used art as a weapon to unite society,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that like Hazarika and Agarwala, Zubeen’s art was driven by emotion, not politics. He reassured fans that no political group would claim his name or influence for any gain. “Zubeen belonged to every Assamese heart, not to any political ideology,” Sarma declared, earning loud applause from the crowd.
A Permanent Tribute to Zubeen Garg
In his speech, Sarma also announced that the government will build a permanent memorial named Zubeen Kshetra in Guwahati to honour the singer’s life and contributions. The site will include an open-air theatre, a museum displaying his works, and a music academy for young talents.
“The memorial will ensure that future generations remember Zubeen Garg not just as an artist but as a movement. His life inspired millions to believe in Assamese identity and creativity,” Sarma said.
The Chief Minister added that the state government will collaborate with Zubeen’s family to design and curate the memorial, ensuring that it reflects his true spirit — free, fearless, and artistic.
Artists Remember Zubeen as a Guiding Light
During the event, several artists shared emotional tributes, recalling Zubeen’s simplicity despite his immense fame. Singer Papon said, “Zubeen da taught us that art should come from the heart. He never cared about popularity; he only cared about authenticity.”
Actress Zerifa Wahid echoed the same sentiment, describing Zubeen as someone who carried Assamese identity wherever he went. “He made the world listen to our language. That’s his real success,” she said.
Musicians from various northeastern states performed Zubeen’s timeless songs, including “Mayabini” and “Ya Ali,” turning the venue into a celebration of his music.
A Symbol of Unity Beyond Boundaries
Zubeen Garg’s influence extended far beyond Assam. His work in multiple languages — including Hindi, Bengali, and Nepali — made him a truly pan-Indian artist. He collaborated with musicians across the country, blending Assamese folk with modern rhythms and global sounds.
Chief Minister Sarma highlighted that Zubeen’s cross-cultural appeal made him a symbol of unity. “Through his music, he connected communities, languages, and generations. That is why his legacy must remain untouched by politics,” he said.
Zubeen’s songs often carried strong messages of justice, love, and humanity. Even when he spoke out on controversial issues, his voice reflected compassion and truth, earning him respect across all sections of society.
Public Response and Emotional Outpouring
Across Assam, tributes continue to pour in for the late singer. Fans have held candlelight vigils, concerts, and prayer meetings in towns like Jorhat, Dibrugarh, and Tezpur. Social media remains flooded with messages celebrating his art and expressing grief over his untimely loss.
In Guwahati, murals of Zubeen now adorn several walls, and local musicians have begun performing in his honour. “Zubeen da was a teacher for every artist in Assam. His songs will live forever,” said a young musician attending the memorial.
The Chief Minister’s Call for Cultural Continuity
Himanta Biswa Sarma urged artists and youth to carry forward Zubeen’s mission of promoting Assamese art globally. He announced that the state’s cultural department would soon launch a scholarship for aspiring singers under Zubeen’s name.
“This scholarship will help nurture the next generation of artists who will keep the flame of Assamese culture burning bright,” he said. The initiative aims to support talented youth from remote areas and preserve the region’s diverse musical heritage.
A Legacy That Lives On
As the evening ended, thousands joined in singing Zubeen Garg’s iconic song “O Mor Aponar Desh.” The collective voices echoed through the venue, creating an atmosphere of unity and remembrance.
Zubeen’s music, full of emotion and honesty, continues to inspire millions. His legacy stands as a reminder that true art belongs to the people — not to politics or power.
Chief Minister Sarma’s assurance that the Zubeen Garg legacy will remain above politics has brought comfort to fans who feared his name might be misused. For Assam, Zubeen’s life was not just a melody but a message — one that will continue to resonate across generations.
Read More: Meghalaya Police Destroy 10 Tonnes of Illegally Grown Cannabis in East Khasi Hills