Tributes Flow on Zubeen Divas as Fans Remember Cultural Icon
A Gathering of Remembrance at Zubeen Kshetra
Fans gathered at Zubeen Kshetra in Sonapur to honor the late artist (Photo: AT)
Sonapur, Sept 19: On Saturday morning, a large crowd of admirers convened at Zubeen Kshetra in Kamarkuchi, commemorating the third and final day of “Zubeen Divas,” which marks one year since the passing of the beloved cultural figure, Zubeen Garg.
The memorial site began to fill up on Friday and remained lively throughout Saturday morning as thousands traveled from various regions of Assam to pay their respects.
Many fans opted to stay overnight at the memorial, transforming it into a space for shared remembrance.
Groups were seen singing Garg’s songs, reminiscing about his performances, and celebrating the artist whose music has become integral to Assam’s cultural fabric.
The atmosphere at Zubeen Kshetra felt familiar; crowds once gathered to hear Garg perform, and now they came together in his absence, singing his songs to keep his spirit alive.
As the day began, floral offerings and gamusas marked the start of the commemorative events, with visitors continuing to arrive as the final day of the program unfolded.
The mood was filled with sorrow, remembrance, and a persistent call for justice regarding Garg’s untimely death.
Two young men from Nalbari shaved their heads at the memorial, expressing their grief and demand for justice through this poignant gesture.
A delegation from the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), including president Utpal Sharma and chief advisor Samujjal Bhattacharya, visited the site in the morning to pay their respects.
Sharma emphasized the importance of preserving Garg’s legacy beyond his music and ensuring it resonates with future generations.
AASU Leaders Honor Zubeen's Legacy
AASU President Utpal Sharma and Chief Advisor Samujjal Bhattacharya paying tribute at the memorial on Saturday (Photo: AT)
“Zubeen Garg will forever resonate with us through his voice and creations. It is now our duty to uphold his work and instill his values in the youth of Assam,” Sharma stated.
He highlighted that Garg should be remembered not just as a singer but also for his advocacy and the assistance he provided to those in need.
Sharma recalled Garg’s public stance against rhino poaching, his offer to convert his home into a quarantine facility during the pandemic, and his efforts to aid flood victims by collecting donations on the streets.
“It’s crucial for them to understand the person who never turned anyone away empty-handed,” he remarked.
Regarding the quest for justice, Sharma noted that the community continues to trust the judicial system.
“People are silent, not protesting in the streets, due to their faith in the court's daily proceedings, hoping for swift justice. They do not wish to wait much longer,” he expressed.
AASU chief advisor Bhattacharya mentioned that the organization’s district units would commemorate the day with various programs statewide, including performances of Garg’s famous song Mayabini and blood donation initiatives.
At Latashil playground in Guwahati, a public performance of Mayabini was scheduled for 6 pm, followed by tributes from notable figures.
“We have complete faith in the law and the judiciary. All of Assam seeks justice. Everyone is closely monitoring the proceedings. No one will rest until justice is served,” Bhattacharya asserted.
Manas Robin, a singer and composer who was close to Garg, also visited the memorial and reflected on the past year.
“The year has flown by. It’s hard to believe that a year has passed. People are here, and I wish everyone could gather to honor Garg, their dada,” Robin shared.
“He will live on in all of us,” he added.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also paid tribute to Garg on Saturday, expressing that it felt “surreal” to have spent a year without him.
“It feels surreal that a year has passed without Zubeen. There are moments I almost expect him to walk in, in that inimitable style of his. Then the loss sinks in once more. Perhaps this is what grief is, a void we learn to live with, but never truly accept,” Sarma wrote on social media.
“Miss you, Zubeen!” he added.
The day-long events at Zubeen Kshetra will continue with spiritual, musical, and cultural tributes, performances, and other commemorative activities as admirers keep gathering at the memorial.