Dibrugarh, Sept 28: This year, Durga Puja in Assam carries a sense of loss. For the first time in decades, the celebrations will be held without the voice of Assam’s legendary singer, Zubeen Garg, whose sudden demise in Singapore on September 19 has cast a pall of gloom over the state.
Every year, Zubeen’s hit numbers filled the air across pandals, becoming inseparable from the festive spirit. But this time, the festivities will carry an undertone of tribute. Puja committees across Assam have decided to honour his memory at their mandaps.
At the Sri Sri Kalibari Durga Puja in Dibrugarh, now in its 115th year, members have already placed Garg’s photograph at the mandap. “This year, we celebrate Durga Puja without Assam’s heartthrob Zubeen da. His songs always resonated with us during the puja. Though he is no longer with us, his photo will be at our mandap where people can pay homage,” said Anirban Sarkar, a committee member.
The Theatrepara Malipatty Durga Puja Samity in Dibrugarh, one of the town’s most popular pandals, has adopted “Operation Sindoor” as its theme this year. “Zubeen da was a trendsetter for the young generation. His songs brought life to our Durga Puja celebrations. This year, we will pay tribute by placing his photograph at the mandap, where people can offer flowers and garlands,” said Aman Chirani, an active member of the committee.
In Guwahati, the Chatribari Sarbajanin Debopujasthan Samity has chosen a patriotic theme, highlighting the Indian Army with fighter jets, submarines, and lifelike statues of soldiers flanking the idol of Goddess Durga. Alongside this, the committee has installed a photo collage tracing Garg’s journey in the entertainment industry, creating a dedicated corner where devotees can remember his contributions.
Several other puja committees across Assam are also planning shradhanjali (tribute) sessions, with soft renditions of Garg’s songs playing in the background.
“We grew up listening to Zubeen da. His music was the heartbeat of Assam,” said a young volunteer at a Guwahati pandal. “For us, Durga Puja without his songs feels incomplete. Paying tribute is our way of thanking him for what he gave us.”
Durga Puja, Assam’s biggest festival after Bihu, is usually celebrated with boundless enthusiasm. This year, the celebrations remain grand, but the absence of Zubeen Garg—the voice that once defined Assam’s festive rhythm—will be deeply felt.
Also Read: Assam: Organizations urge Greater Boko Durga Puja committees to honour Zubeen Garg
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