Assam's Rongali Bihu Observances Subdued in Wake of Zubeen Garg's Passing
The vibrant spirit of Rongali Bihu, Assam's most celebrated festival marking the Assamese New Year, has been profoundly muted this season as the state continues to mourn the loss of its beloved cultural icon, Zubeen Garg. Across towns and districts, the usual exuberant festivities have been replaced by a somber atmosphere of remembrance, with numerous Bihu committees making significant alterations to their traditional programs.
Widespread Cancellations and Modifications Across the State
From upper Assam to the lower regions, the impact is palpable. In Guwahati, the Beltola Bihu Utsav committee—where Zubeen was a perennial and cherished stage presence—has completely canceled its event this year. Similarly, the Kharghuli Bihu committee has forgone its usual elaborate celebrations. The Latasil Bihu committee has notably shortened its customary five-day program to four days, dedicating April 15 entirely to memorial events honoring Zubeen Garg.
"This Bihu has been marred by his demise," stated Kailash Sarma, chairperson of the platinum jubilee celebration committee of Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani, Latasil. "We have not invited the big singers who used to perform in Latasil. Instead, we have invited Jontro, the band formed by Zubeen's longtime co-artists, to perform as a tribute to his memory."
Simple Observances Replace Grand Festivities
In many areas, celebrations have been reduced to the bare minimum. The Sepon Central Rongali Bihu Sanmilan in Charaideo district will observe the festival solely through a flag-hoisting ceremony. Pankaj Phukan, principal secretary of the committee, explained, "In every step of our event's progress, he was the inspiration. Respecting his contributions, we will limit the formalities to flag hoisting."
Even more starkly, the Tingkhong Anchalik Rongali Bihu Sanmilan committee in Dibrugarh district has decided against organizing any celebrations whatsoever. Committee president Sadananda Changmai expressed the collective sentiment, saying, "This year, profound pain has replaced joy. Without Zubeen Garg, the Bihu stages in Assam are empty and silent."
Artistic Community Joins in Mourning
The void left by Zubeen is being felt acutely by his peers in the artistic community. Renowned musician, composer, and singer Manas Robin has publicly declared that he will refrain from performing at any Bihu events until Saat Bihu—the first seven days of Rongali Bihu. This period holds special significance as it was when Zubeen traditionally electrified stages across Assam with his performances.
Robin articulated his stance in a social media post, writing, "Till Saat Bohag, I will stay away from all types of Bihu programmes." This personal boycott underscores the deep personal and professional loss felt throughout Assam's cultural sphere.
Legacy of a Cultural Icon
Zubeen Garg was not merely a performer; he was an integral part of the Bihu experience for countless Assamese people. His energetic stage presence and soulful renditions of Bihu geet (songs) defined the festival for generations. Even committees that were not always able to secure his participation due to his demanding schedule are now paying homage by scaling back their celebrations.
In Nalbari district, the Rongali Bihu organized by the people of Helacha—which had welcomed Zubeen on the third day of Bohag in recent years—has canceled its cultural evening program on that specific day as a mark of reverence. This pattern of cancellation and curtailment, driven by respect rather than obligation, highlights the unparalleled stature Zubeen held in Assamese culture.
As Assam navigates this bittersweet Rongali Bihu, the subdued celebrations serve as a powerful, collective tribute to an artist whose voice and spirit were synonymous with the festival itself. The scaled-back events, solemn flag-hoisting ceremonies, and artistic silences speak volumes about the indelible mark Zubeen Garg left on the heart of Assam.
