The removal of a large portrait of late Assamese singer Zubeen Garg painted on the Ganeshguri flyover has sparked widespread criticism across Assam, with questions being raised over whether the artwork was removed as part of city beautification work or because of the message written alongside it.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Guwahati on a three-day tour from July 1, and the Japanese Prime Minister is also expected to accompany him. Ahead of the high-profile visit, extensive beautification and cleanliness drives are underway across the city.
As part of the beautification campaign, the Assam government has also decided to develop Guwahati as a “Purple City”, with flyovers and other public structures being painted purple. During this drive, the portrait of Zubeen Garg on the Ganeshguri flyover was also painted over.
The portrait had been created by artist Marshall Barua after Zubeen Garg’s demise and carried the caption “Comrades Never Die”. The removal of the artwork reignited emotions among Zubeen’s fans, who continue to mourn the singer’s death.
Zubeen Garg’s wife, Garima Garg, questioned the decision, asking whether Zubeen’s image had become such a visual disturbance that it needed to be removed.
Several people alleged that the portrait was removed not only because of beautification work but also due to the political message associated with the words “Comrades Never Die” written beside it. The issue quickly gained momentum on social media, with many demanding that the artwork be restored.
Following public appeals, Marshall Barua announced his decision to repaint the portrait at the same location. However, according to reports, Guwahati Police contacted the artist and requested him not to recreate the artwork until July 3, after Prime Minister Modi’s visit concludes.
Barua, however, said he would respect the wishes of the public and proceed with the work. On Thursday, he reached the Ganeshguri flyover area, interacted with Zubeen fans and local residents, and began repainting the portrait.
Hundreds of fans gathered at the spot, many singing along to Zubeen Garg’s songs from the roadside and the flyover. Several people were seen becoming emotional, while some expressed anger over the removal of the earlier artwork.
Sensing the public sentiment and the gathering crowd, police personnel did not stop the artist from continuing the painting work. The recreation of the portrait turned into an emotional tribute by fans of the iconic Assamese singer.