Assam Celebrates Rongali Bihu, Pays Tribute To Zubeen Garg

Rongali Bihu Festivities

Dispur: Assam is currently embracing its most significant festival, Rongali Bihu, which is marked by vibrant celebrations throughout the state. This year’s festivities, however, are overshadowed by a profound sense of loss as people remember Zubeen Garg, a beloved cultural figure who passed away on September 19 in Singapore. His absence has created a gap felt by many during this time of jubilance.

Rongali Bihu serves as a celebration of the Assamese New Year and is observed in both urban and rural regions alike. The festival is characterized by traditional dances, songs, and performances. The Stage Bihu committees this year are incorporating a sense of remembrance in their celebrations as they acknowledge the impact of Zubeen Garg’s passing on the festivities.

Legacy of Zubeen Garg

Zubeen Garg is widely recognized as a legendary figure in the realm of Assamese music and culture. His contributions were vital in uniting communities through music while also emphasizing and promoting the area’s rich cultural heritage. His engaging performances had long been a key attraction at Bihu celebrations, drawing large crowds who would gather to be part of the experience.

Members of the Ganeshguri Bihu Committee in Guwahati expressed their sorrow over his demise, noting, “Zubeen was supposed to be our key performer this year as well. It is our misfortune that he left us with grief and tears. His performances had a unique draw; fans used to climb hills, buildings, and even trees just to catch a glimpse of their favorite artist live.”

Fan Tributes and Remembrance

Fans of all ages continue to honor Zubeen Garg’s legacy. Pranab, a young fan from Guwahati, shared his thoughts: “Zubeen Garg represented a rebellious spirit for multiple generations. My father listened to his early songs, I enjoyed his later works, and my younger brother connects with his current contributions. His song ‘Ya Ali’ from the Bollywood film Gangster holds special memories for me. Assam is unlikely to see another artist of his caliber.”

Another admirer, Anita Das, remarked, “Zubeen Garg wasn’t just a singer; he was someone who dedicated his life to the people of the Northeast. He was known for helping others even in hard times. Anyone who approached him would never leave empty-handed. Bihu feels incomplete without him. Many are still finding it hard to cope with this loss to engage fully in the celebrations.”

Resonance of Zubeen Garg’s Music

As the rhythmic sounds of dhols and pepa resonate across Assam, Rongali Bihu 2026 stands as a dual-purpose event: a celebration of life and a tribute to Zubeen Garg. Although his absence has cast an emotional shadow over the Bihu stages, his voice still echoes in every song, dance, and heart. For the people of Assam, this year’s Bihu is more than a welcome to the new year; it is an opportunity to remember a cultural icon whose enduring legacy is sure to remain alive.