The family of the iconic Assamese singer, composer, and actor Zubeen Garg has made a significant announcement to honor his memory and continue his life's work. On Friday, they revealed plans to establish a formal trust in his name, dedicated to serving society in line with the late artist's own vision and passions.
A Legacy to be Preserved and Propelled Forward
The announcement was made during a press conference held in Guwahati by the singer's wife, Garima Garg, and his sister, Palmee Borthakur. Garima stated that the decision was reached after extensive consultations with family members, relatives, close friends, and numerous individuals from various fields who were connected to Zubeen Garg throughout his life.
The family has decided to donate their property located in the Kharghuli area of Guwahati to serve as the operational base for the trust. This move signifies a deep commitment to transforming a personal space into a permanent center for his legacy.
The Core Mission and Collaborative Vision
The primary objectives of the Zubeen Garg Trust will revolve around causes that were deeply important to the artist. Garima Garg outlined that the trust will actively work on nature conservation and the promotion of emerging young talent in the arts.
Furthermore, the trust will undertake the scientific preservation of the intellectual property rights associated with Zubeen Garg's vast creative portfolio. A dedicated research wing will also be established to meticulously study and document his life and artistic contributions.
The family emphasized that the trust will not work in isolation. It is set to collaborate closely with two existing organizations founded by Garg and his family. In social and cultural endeavors, it will partner with the 'Kalaguru Artists Foundation'. For initiatives aimed at nurturing the new generation, it will join forces with the 'Abhinaya: Jonkie Borthakur Performing Arts Academy', named after the singer's late sister.
Members of the global 'Zubeen Fan Club' have also been invited to work closely with the trust, ensuring his admirers are part of this enduring mission.
Safeguarding Dreams for Future Generations
The overarching goal, as stated by the family, is to create a robust institution that safeguards Zubeen Garg's dreams, his extensive body of work, his creative legacy, and his core ideals and beliefs. This trust is envisioned as a bridge to carry his spirit forward for future generations to appreciate and draw inspiration from.
The 52-year-old cultural icon passed away on September 19 while swimming in the sea during a visit to Singapore for the Northeast Festival. His untimely demise sent shockwaves across India and the global Assamese community.
In a related development, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case has filed charges. Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, the singer's secretary Siddhartha Sharma, and two band members, Shekharjyoti Goswami and Amritprava Mahanta, have been charged with murder. The singer's cousin, Sandipan Garg, faces a charge of culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
Additionally, Zubeen Garg's two personal security officers (PSOs), Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya, have been charged with criminal conspiracy and criminal breach of trust for the alleged misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to them.
