Assam Government Honors Zubeen Garg with Land and Memorials

The Assam government has made significant decisions to honor the late singer-composer Zubeen Garg, who passed away earlier this week in Singapore. His death has deeply affected the state, prompting officials to extend the period of state mourning until September 23, the day he will be laid to rest.

In a move to commemorate his legacy, the Assam Cabinet approved the allocation of 10 bighas of land in Kamarkuchi NC village, Kamrup (Metro), as Garg’s final resting place and a site for a permanent memorial. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed this decision on social media, stating, “After discussions with the family of Zubeen Garg, the Assam Cabinet has approved allotment of 10 bigha land in Kamarkuchi, near Guwahati, where our beloved Zubeen will be laid to rest on September 23.”

In addition to the memorial in Kamrup, the state plans to transport Garg’s ashes to Jorhat. There, a second memorial will be established to honor his significant connection to the historic town.

A Voice That Defined Assamese Music

Zubeen Garg, celebrated for his hit song “Ya Ali,” passed away after experiencing breathlessness and a seizure while swimming in Singapore. Despite immediate medical attention, including CPR and hospitalization at Singapore General Hospital, he was pronounced dead at 2:50 PM IST on Friday. Born in 1972 in Jorhat, Garg rose to fame with his diverse musical talents, spanning genres and transcending regional boundaries.

His breakthrough came with the 2002 Bollywood album “Ya Ali” from the film *Gangster*, but he remained committed to Assam’s folk and contemporary music scene, producing hundreds of Assamese songs and mentoring young artists. Known affectionately as the “heartthrob of Assam,” Garg’s influence extended beyond music; he was an advocate for various social and cultural issues.

His untimely death has created a profound void in Assam’s artistic community, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike. The state government’s initiative to establish memorials in both Kamrup and Jorhat aims to ensure that Garg’s legacy—one that has become closely intertwined with Assamese identity—endures for future generations.

As preparations unfold for his final rites and memorials, the people of Assam reflect on the impact of Zubeen Garg’s life and work, cherishing the profound connection they shared with a figure who defined their musical landscape.