Every year, fans from every corner of Assam and beyond would bring surprises for their heartthrob, Zubeen Garg. His residences in Kahilipara and Kharghuli would turn into festive grounds of love and admiration. From early morning, admirers would gather outside his gate, holding flowers, handmade gifts, and posters with his pictures. The air would fill with his songs, laughter, and that familiar excitement — “Zubeen da’s birthday!”
Friends, peers, and fans would walk into his home and studio, turning the day into a spontaneous celebration. Some would sing, some would share stories, while Zubeen, with his easy smile and humble charm, made everyone feel like family. His studio, once alive with music and chatter, would glow with lights, love, and endless wishes.
But this year feels different. This will be the first birthday since Zubeen Garg’s untimely passing, and the air across Assam is thick with grief, love, and longing. Fans who once waited for his birthday live sessions or surprise appearances are now struggling to come to terms with the truth that their beloved Zubeen da is no more. His sudden and mysterious death has left an unhealed wound in the hearts of millions. The pain lingers, and as 18 November approaches, that absence feels heavier than ever.
The same gates that once welcomed a crowd of admirers will stand silent. The studio that once echoed with his voice now holds a different kind of stillness. Yet, people will still come, carrying flowers, guitars, and tears. They will still sing his songs, light candles, and whisper their wishes to the sky. Because even though he is no longer here, his presence lingers — in the air, in the city, and in every note of his music.
Yet, in true Zubeen Garg fashion, this year’s commemorations have taken on a deeper and more meaningful purpose. Across districts, towns, and cities, fans and artist groups are turning his birthday into a day of giving, reflecting the compassion and humanity he always embodied.
Various organisations, political parties, and local committees have lined up welfare and social initiatives in his memory — from distributing food and clothing to the underprivileged, to hosting quiz and essay competitions, debates, and tree plantation drives.
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To honour his 53rd birth anniversary, the BJP Assam unit has announced blood donation camps across the state, echoing the spirit of service Zubeen always stood for.
Several fan clubs have announced memorial concerts, art exhibitions, and open mic sessions where people can sing, recite poems, or share personal memories of the singer. Across the city, artists are painting vibrant portraits of Zubeen Garg on roadside walls and overbridges, turning public spaces into open-air galleries of love and remembrance. His face — smiling, soulful, timeless — now adorns corners that once echoed with his voice.
Adding to this emotional commemoration, a grand musical evening has been planned on 19 November, where over 200 singers and more than 60 musicians will come together to perform Zubeen’s songs — a heartfelt tribute to the man whose melodies shaped generations. The stage will celebrate not just his music, but his spirit — a reminder that legends like Zubeen never truly fade; they continue to sing through those they inspire.
To make this birthday even more special, Ajay Phukan has released Zubeen Garg’s final song on the occasion of his 53rd birth anniversary — a musical gift to fans and admirers. The event, titled “Kanchanjangha – Sanskriti Houk Maitreer Mantra,” features renowned artists Joy Baruah and Manas Robin, alongside popular performers Maitreyee Patar, Rupam Bhuyan, Bishrut Saikia, Sweetie Das, Komalika Kashyap, Rakesh Riyan, Richa Bharadwaj, Bonoshree Bailung, Trishna Devi, Archana Kaushik, Murchana, and Tripti, among others.
The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) is also observing the beloved artist’s birthday over three days with various events. Today marks the first day of the celebration, featuring a programme titled “Rong-Tulikar Edin” at Nehru Park in Guwahati, where students and artists are bringing life to their canvases with vibrant paintings inspired by Zubeen.
This 18 November will not just be a day of mourning, but one of music, gratitude, and remembrance, because even though Zubeen Garg may no longer walk among us, his melody continues to breathe in every heart that ever sang his song.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of EastMojo.
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