Assam’s biggest cultural celebration, Rongali Bihu, has begun with vibrant festivities across the state, but this year’s celebrations carry a deep emotional undertone. Amid music, dance, and traditional rituals marking the Assamese New Year, people are also remembering beloved cultural icon Zubeen Garg, whose passing on September 19 in Singapore continues to leave the state in mourning. The festive spirit, though alive, is closely intertwined with grief and remembrance.
Stage Performances Dedicated to a Musical Legend
Across Assam, Bihu committees have blended celebration with tribute, dedicating segments of their stage performances to Zubeen Garg. In Guwahati’s Ganeshguri area, committee members said his absence is deeply felt as he was once a central attraction of Bihu events. Known for his electrifying stage presence and emotional connection with audiences, Zubeen had consistently drawn massive crowds during Rongali Bihu celebrations, making his absence this year particularly painful for fans and organizers alike.
Fans and Generations Unite in Tribute and Memory
Fans from different generations continue to celebrate Zubeen Garg’s legacy through his music. Many recall how his songs connected families across decades, with older listeners enjoying his early works while younger audiences relate to his later contributions. His Bollywood hit “Ya Ali” remains one of his most widely recognized performances across India. Admirers describe him not just as a singer but as a cultural force who shaped Assamese identity through music, generosity, and emotional storytelling.
A Festival of Joy Shadowed by Loss and Legacy
While traditional Bihu instruments like the dhol and pepa continue to echo across Assam, this year’s celebrations reflect a mix of joy and sorrow. Fans and community members say that Rongali Bihu feels incomplete without Zubeen Garg’s presence on stage. Yet, his voice continues to live on in every performance, keeping his legacy alive in the cultural fabric of the state. For Assam, Rongali Bihu 2026 is not only a celebration of new beginnings but also a heartfelt tribute to a legend whose influence will endure for generations.
