Assam Unites in Grand Celebration for Zubeen Garg's 53rd Birthday
The entire state of Assam came together on Tuesday in a remarkable display of affection to celebrate the 53rd birthday of beloved musical icon Zubeen Garg. A series of heartfelt events and tributes unfolded across the region, transforming the day into a statewide festival honoring the singer's enduring legacy and his profound connection with the people.
Official Tributes and Public Initiatives
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma led the official commemorations, paying floral tributes at a special 'shraddhanjali' programme held in the Khanapara area of Guwahati. Speaking at a blood donation camp organized for the occasion, the CM expressed the collective sentiment of the state. He stated, "Today marks the 53rd birthday of our beloved Zubeen Garg. A day that reminds us of his music, his voice, and his irreplaceable place in Assam’s heart. We will keep our Zubeen alive in our hearts through his timeless creations." He emphasized that Garg was always a singer for the poor and needy, making the blood donation camps a fitting tribute to benefit the underprivileged.
In a significant move to promote environmental awareness, a cause close to Garg's heart, a major tree plantation drive was conducted at the Dighilipukhuri pond premises in Guwahati. Hundreds of saplings were planted by residents, symbolizing the musician's powerful message of sustainability and positive change for future generations.
Demands for Justice and Lasting Memorials
The All Assam Students Union (Aasu) took a poignant stand by forming a massive human chain in the city’s Uzan Bazar area, using the birth anniversary to loudly demand justice for Zubeen Garg. Aasu president Utpal Sarma detailed their three-day program, which began on Sunday. "On the first day, artists gathered to paint portraits of Zubeen Garg. The second day featured a plantation drive, and on Tuesday we formed a human chain demanding justice for him. In the evening, earthen lamps will be lit in his honour," he explained.
Efforts to immortalize the cultural legend were evident as Gauhati University laid a foundation stone for a statue in his memory. Students and teachers gathered in large numbers to celebrate the icon's vast legacy. The university’s Vice Chancellor, Nani Gopal Mahanta, reflected on the maestro’s deep emotional connection with the people of Assam.
Adding to the permanent memorials, a grand celebration in Kokrajhar district saw BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary lay the foundation stone for the Zubeen Garg Park. This ambitious project promises beautifully designed landscapes and will be crowned with a statue of the revered artist.
Personal Tributes and Statewide Participation
The celebrations were not confined to public spaces. At the singer's Kahilipara residence, an emotional gathering of fans joined his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, who cut a birthday cake on his behalf. The emotional tribute was further amplified by the unveiling of a bust at their home.
Political and cultural organizations participated actively. The AGP inaugurated the day with a blood donation camp and a tribute program near Dighalipukhuri, led by senior actor Nilu Chakraborty. The event saw participation from AGP general secretary Birendra Prasad, along with MLAs Ramendra Narayan Kalita, Manoj Saikia, and Sunil Deka, demonstrating the widespread admiration that cuts across different spheres of society.
The 53rd birthday of Zubeen Garg transcended a mere celebration; it became a powerful testament to how a artist's work can unify a community, inspire social and environmental action, and create a legacy that continues to resonate deeply within the public consciousness long after the music stops.
