On a somber Sunday, the vibrant streets of Guwahati transformed into a river of sorrow, filled with countless fans who had come to bid a final, tearful farewell to their cherished Assamese singer-composer, Zubeen Garg.
Thousands of mourners lined the route, showering petals upon the ambulance that carried the singer’s mortal remains from Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport to his residence in Kahilipara, a journey spanning 25 kilometers. Garg’s body had arrived in New Delhi from Singapore late Saturday night, where it was received by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, who offered their solemn tributes.
An emotional moment unfolded as his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, received his body at the Guwahati airport early Sunday morning. The procession notably included Garg’s beloved open jeep, a poignant detail for his devoted followers.
Later, his mortal remains were brought to the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah sports complex, located centrally between his home and the airport. This allowed legions of fans, many traveling from distant districts, to offer their heartfelt respects. The Chief Minister, acknowledging the overwhelming public sentiment, announced, “An ever-growing number of people wish to see our beloved Zubeen one last time, and we deeply understand these feelings. Therefore, we have decided to keep the stadium open throughout the night. Zubeen’s mortal remains will also remain at the stadium on Monday for further public homage.”
Final Resting Place Chosen
Following discussions with the singer’s family, the State Cabinet designated Hatimura in Sonapur, approximately 30 kilometers east of Guwahati, as the site for his last rites, which are scheduled for September 23.
Education Minister Ranoj Pegu conveyed the decision, stating, “The Chief Minister tasked us with conferring with Garg’s family regarding the cremation ground. While his wife recognized the fervent wishes of the people in Jorhat to bring his body there, she explained that his ailing, octogenarian father would be unable to make such a journey. After considering various potential sites in both Guwahati and Jorhat, Garg’s family ultimately chose Sonapur. Discussions about establishing memorials for this cultural icon in Jorhat, Guwahati, and other locations will follow.”
Throughout the mournful journey through Guwahati’s streets, fans sang his iconic songs and passionately chanted “Joi Zubeen da” (Long Live Zubeen). Many carried traditional Assamese gamosas, specially embroidered with “ZG (Zubeen Garg) Forever,” a testament to their enduring love.
Singapore Trip Clarified Amidst Tragedy
Amidst criticism regarding his trip to Singapore for the North East India Festival, organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta clarified that the singer had primarily traveled for a relaxing vacation and to connect with members of the Assam Association there. The three-day festival, originally slated to commence on September 19, was abruptly cancelled following Garg’s tragic death while swimming without a life jacket in the sea.
Mahanta emphasized that Garg’s visit was voluntary, stating, “He did not come to Singapore solely for the festival; he had his own personal plans.”
In response to the tragedy, the Assam government has launched a Crime Investigation Department probe into Garg’s death. Additionally, multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) have been lodged against Mr. Mahanta and the singer’s manager, Siddharth Sarma, alleging that their negligence contributed to the unfortunate incident.
Upcoming Tributes
Devajit Saikia, Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), announced that the Assam Cricket Association plans to host a 40-minute tribute program for Zubeen Garg during the opening ceremony of the Women’s World Cup Cricket in Guwahati on September 30. He remarked, “Assam is in mourning, and Garg deserves profound respect. The BCCI is considering a collaboration for this special program in Zubeen Garg’s honor.”
Further south in Silchar, members of the North East Integration Rally also joined the chorus of sorrow. Biswadeep Gupta, the rally’s founder, highlighted Garg’s immense legacy: “Zubeen was a passionate advocate for the integration of northeast India. With an astounding repertoire of over 38,000 songs across nearly 40 languages, his contribution to society and culture is truly immeasurable, a fact many might not fully grasp.”