Assam Mourns as Legendary Singer Zubeen Garg’s Mortal Remains Arrive in Guwahati

Guwahati, Sept 2025: The mortal remains of Assam’s legendary singer, actor, and cultural icon Zubeen Garg arrived at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport early Sunday morning, triggering an outpouring of grief across the state. The arrival of the beloved artist, whose untimely demise has left millions heartbroken, was marked by solemnity, reverence, and a strong show of respect from both family and officials.

The casket carrying Garg’s body was received by his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, alongside senior government officials and close family members. It was transported through the VIP exit and carefully placed into a specially decorated ambulance adorned with white flowers, symbolizing peace, purity, and the deep respect held for the cultural icon.

Zubeen Garg, widely celebrated for his unparalleled contributions to Assamese music and cinema, was far more than a singer. His voice, artistry, and activism made him a symbol of Assamese cultural pride, and his tragic passing has left a profound void in the hearts of millions across Assam and beyond. According to sources close to the family, the state government is coordinating closely to organize public tributes and final rites, ensuring that they reflect the stature of the man who gave Assam its musical heartbeat.

The influential All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) has appealed for a fitting farewell to the departed artist. The organization also recommended that the state government establish a world-class memorial to honor Zubeen Garg’s enduring legacy. In a statement, AASU leadership, including President Utpal Sarma, General Secretary Samiran Phukon, and Chief Adviser Samujjal Bhattacharjya, urged the state government to observe the final rites in the most dignified manner possible. They further emphasized that the decision regarding the location of the last rites should rest with the family.

AASU also conveyed its recommendations on both the last rites and the creation of a memorial to the Cultural Affairs Minister and Chief Secretary of Assam, underscoring the deep respect for Garg’s contributions, which extended far beyond Assam and India.

Given the expected massive public turnout to pay respects, authorities in Guwahati have issued traffic advisories to ensure smooth flow and public safety. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Guwahati, announced that the public will have an opportunity to offer tributes at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex at Sarusajai Stadium, where Zubeen Garg’s mortal remains will be placed.

Due to his immense popularity, large crowds are anticipated at multiple locations, including LGBI Airport, Garg’s residence in Bhagaduttapur, and the sports complex. The Guwahati Traffic Police have implemented the following measures:

1. Restriction of commercial goods-carrying vehicles on NH-27 and NH-17 from 6 AM to 11 PM on September 21, 2025, until further orders.
2. Attendees paying homage at the sports complex are directed to alight at Rongmon Point on NH-27, entering via Gate No. 1A and exiting through Gate No. 3, with designated routes to the service road. No private vehicles will be permitted inside the complex. Emergency and media vehicles will enter via Gate No. 1C and park in front of the Indoor Stadium.
3. The service road of NH-27, from Lokhra underbridge to Nalapara, in front of the sports complex, will be designated a No Vehicle Plying Zone.
4. The restrictions will not affect emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire tenders, vehicles carrying oxygen cylinders, school buses, or local residents.

Parking spaces have been earmarked outside the complex for attendees arriving from Khanapara and Jalukbari, ensuring orderly access.

In tribute to Zubeen Garg’s legacy, the Assam government has declared a three-day state mourning from Saturday to Monday. During this period, official entertainment, dinners, and ceremonial functions are suspended. Programs such as Seva Saptah, which include ceremonial events or benefit distributions, have been postponed. Service-oriented initiatives like health camps, Nikshay Mitra support for TB patients, and plantation activities will continue, reflecting the state’s ongoing commitment to public welfare.

The state and its people continue to grieve the loss of a figure who was more than an entertainer. Zubeen Garg’s contributions to music, film, and social activism made him a cultural touchstone for generations. His melodies, cinematic work, and advocacy for Assamese identity have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Assam. As public tributes continue over the next few days, the state pays homage to an icon whose voice will forever resonate in the hearts of his fans.

Team Maverick