The death of singer Zubeen Garg has cast a pall over this year’s Rongali Bihu across Assam, with many local committees shortening, toning down or cancelling events in tribute to the late artist. From Guwahati to upper Assam, organisers say grief has replaced the usual festive mood, prompting scaled-back observances and memorial programmes that prioritise remembrance over revelry.
In Guwahati, long-running venues where Zubeen was a regular presence have called off shows. Latasil Bihu committee, which typically invites prominent singers, has instead asked Jontro — a band formed by Zubeen’s longtime collaborators — to perform as a tribute. Kailash Sarma, chairperson of the Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani platinum jubilee committee, said the committee shortened its programme from five days to four and will dedicate April 15 entirely to events in Zubeen’s memory. “This Bihu has been marred by his demise, and we have not invited big singers who used to perform in Latasil,” he said.
Several community committees in upper Assam have limited activities to ceremonial flag hoisting. The Beltola Bihu Utsav and Kharghuli committees have also foregone the usual splendour this year. In Charaideo district, the Sepon Central Rongali Bihu Sanmilan will mark the festival only with flag hoisting; Pankaj Phukan, the committee’s principal secretary, said Zubeen had been an inspiration at every stage of their events and that they would therefore keep formalities minimal.
Some areas have taken more drastic steps. The Tingkhong Anchalik Rongali Bihu Sanmilan in Dibrugarh district decided not to hold celebrations at all. Upper Assam, normally noted for its colourful and exuberant Bihu festivities, has seen many programmes cancelled or muted; committee president Sadananda Changmai said profound pain has replaced joy, adding, “Without Zubeen Garg, the Bihu stages in Assam are empty and silent.”
In lower Assam’s Nalbari district, the Helacha community-where Zubeen had performed on the third day of Bohag in recent years-cancelled its cultural evening on that day as a mark of respect. Numerous other committees across the state have similarly curtailed events, even where Zubeen had not been able to appear in person during his lifetime.
The loss is felt acutely among fellow artists. Renowned musician and composer Manas Robin announced on social media that he will refrain from performing at any Bihu programme until Saat Bihu, the first seven days of the festival. “Till Saat Bohag, I will stay away from all types of Bihu programmes,” he wrote, underlining how Zubeen’s absence has left a deep void in Assam’s cultural life.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/bihu-runs-out-of-rong-with-zubeens-death-assam-hasnt-come-out-of-grief/articleshow/130216316.cms
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Publish Date: 2026-04-12 23:42:00
