HT Correspondent
JORHAT, Sept 27: Assam Minister for Cultural Affairs, Industries, Commerce, and Public Enterprises Bimal Borah on Saturday announced that the 13th day mangalik anusthan (religious rituals) of legendary singer Zubeen Garg will be organised at Jorhat Stadium on October 1.
The programme will begin at 8 am and continue till sunset, allowing thousands of fans and well-wishers to pay their final respects to the iconic artiste.
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Addressing the press at the convention centre at Cinnamara, the Minister said that after discussions with eminent citizens and representatives of various organisations, a 48-member steering committee has been constituted to ensure smooth conduct of the rituals.
As part of the observance, a pot containing the ashes of Zubeen Garg’s mortal remains will be placed at the venue for the public to offer their last respects.
A large portrait of the late singer will also be displayed for people to pay floral tributes.
Borah informed that the programme will commence with Vedic rituals, followed by nam prasanga, gayan bayan, and dihanaam.
An all-religion prayer meet will also be held, signifying the inclusive and unifying legacy of the artiste.
The Minister added that people from several districts are expected to attend the ceremony, reflecting the widespread grief and admiration for the singer who held a special place in the cultural fabric of Assam.
It may be recalled that after the demise of Zubeen Garg, there was a strong demand from fans, well-wishers and several organisations for the body to be brought to Jorhat so that the last rites could be performed there.
Many had also called for the establishment of the singer’s main samadhi sthal in the town, underlining Jorhat’s deep emotional bond with him.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, the Central Puja Coordination Committee, Jorhat, has decided that Durga Puja organising committees in and around the town will also pay tribute to the late singer.
Abhijit Bhattacharyya, General Secretary of the Committee, told this newspaper that portraits of Zubeen Garg will be installed at various puja mandaps, where devotees will offer shraddhanjali during the festivities.
He further informed that puja organisers have been requested not to play loud popular songs during the immersion of idols on Dashami.
Instead, they have been advised to use devotional music accompanied by the traditional beats of dhak and doba.
The move, Bhattacharyya said, is both a mark of respect to Zubeen Garg and a gesture of solemnity befitting the occasion.
The combined initiatives of the State Government, local organisations, and the community highlight the magnitude of loss felt across Assam at the passing of Zubeen Garg, and underscore the cultural icon’s unparalleled place in the hearts of the people.
