Assam has collectively poured its heart out in a touching tribute to legendary singer-composer Zubeen Garg, as his final film, ‘Roi Roi Binale’ (which translates to ‘Tears Still Flow’), opened to unprecedented crowds across the state this past Friday. The film’s premiere, coming after Garg’s untimely passing in Singapore last month, has turned into a heartfelt communal experience for his devoted fanbase.
The anticipation for ‘Roi Roi Binale’ was palpable, with the very first screening at a Guwahati multiplex kicking off at an astonishing 4:25 AM. Long queues formed well before dawn, filled with fans determined to witness their beloved star’s final cinematic performance. This enthusiasm wasn’t limited to Guwahati; shows began early in all major cities, marking a simultaneous nationwide release that truly resonated with audiences.
The film, a musical drama featuring 11 songs composed by Garg himself, casts him in the lead role of a blind musician whose life unfolds amidst struggles. The narrative delves deep into the journey of an artist, a theme undoubtedly close to Garg’s own illustrious career. The 146-minute feature was directed by Rajesh Bhuyan, with Garg himself producing alongside his wife Garima and Shyamantak Gautam.
The initial box office performance has been nothing short of phenomenal. Tickets for all shows over the upcoming week were completely sold out, indicating that ‘Roi Roi Binale’ is set to shatter all previous box office records for Assamese cinema. To meet the immense demand, most theaters have scheduled up to seven screenings daily, many running into the early hours of the next morning.
Further demonstrating the film’s cultural significance, the Assam cabinet, in a decision made on October 29, 2025, announced that the state’s share of Goods and Services Tax (GST) generated by ‘Roi Roi Binale’ will be donated to the Kalaguru Artiste Foundation. This foundation, established by Zubeen Garg himself, supports the welfare of underprivileged artists and communities, ensuring his legacy of generosity continues to make a positive impact.