A somber mood enveloped the CGI Hall at the Indian Consulate General in Dubai as devastated Assamese expatriates gathered to honor their cherished cultural figure, Zubeen Garg.
The iconic Assamese singer, songwriter, and composer died on September 19 in Singapore at 52, leaving his native Assam in profound sorrow.
In an extraordinary display of mourning, over 1.5 million people flooded the streets of Guwahati for his final procession—a farewell recognized by the Limca Book of Records as Asia’s largest and the world’s fourth largest public farewell, following those of Michael Jackson, Pope Francis, and Queen Elizabeth II.
Stay informed with the latest updates. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Who was Zubeen Garg?
Zubeen’s artistic journey began at 19, releasing his debut album, Anamika, in 1992. His fusion of Western and traditional sounds marked him as a pioneer. He achieved Bollywood fame with the hit song ‘Ya Ali’ from the 2006 film Gangster.
Despite his success, Garg, known for his rebellious Assamese songs challenging insurgent dictates, eventually left Bollywood to return to his roots.
In Assam, he revitalized the waning film industry as an actor and filmmaker. He was also a philanthropist, donating most of his earnings to the needy.
It’s no surprise that a vast crowd filled Assam’s streets to honor such a unique artist.
Heartfelt tribute
In Dubai, the sorrow was equally palpable as emotional Assamese expats convened for a condolence meeting.
Tandeep Bhagowati, a longtime friend, was overcome with emotion recalling Garg’s visits to Dubai. “He always stayed with me during his concerts,” Bhagowati shared. “He gave us unforgettable performances, especially a magical acoustic show in 2016.”
That 2016 evening, Garg’s powerful voice resonated as he sang ‘Mayabini’, one of the over 38,000 songs he recorded.
Now, more than 10 days after his tragic passing, ‘Mayabini’ echoes through Assam as mourners sing its every line.
Dubai resident Arman Hazorika expressed why Garg’s loss is deeply personal for all Assamese.
“Every home across towns and villages mourns this loss personally. A simple-living young man who embraced all and forged a new artistic path,” Hazorika noted.
“Zubeen left Bollywood at his peak to serve his people. He was like a brother and son to everyone, transcending worldly differences.
“He has now ascended from a singer-artist to an unparalleled ‘humanist’.”
