Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday made it clear that the final tributes to music legend Zubeen Garg must remain a people’s event, free from the trappings of VIP culture. As the state continues to mourn the untimely demise of the celebrated singer, the government and family members are finalizing arrangements for his last rites, ensuring that his fans are at the heart of every farewell ceremony. Zubeen Garg, who passed away in Singapore on September 19, was brought back to Assam on Saturday.
His mortal remains were kept at Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati, where thousands of grieving fans gathered through the day to pay their respects. Emotional scenes unfolded as admirers sang his timeless songs and bid farewell to the man who had defined generations of Assamese music. Officials confirmed that the cremation will take place at Jorabat near Dichang Resort, where Zubeen’s final resting place will be established. Contrary to speculation, his body will not be transported to Jorhat. Instead, his ashes will be taken there after the cremation to allow people in Upper Assam to pay their respects.
“This will be Zubeen’s eternal place of rest, and we want to create a memorial where fans can continue to come and remember him,” an official involved in the arrangements stated. Speaking to the media at Sarusajai, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took a firm stand against what he termed the “backdoor entry culture” of politicians.“I have noticed that some ministers and MLAs entered through the back gates of Sarusajai, creating a VIP culture. I will never allow that. Only Zubeen Garg’s fans can enter there. From tomorrow, everyone will have to queue like ordinary people,” Sarma said.