Gauhati University to Rename Performing Arts Centre in Honor of Zubeen Garg

Gauhati University has announced a series of initiatives to honor the late and beloved singer Zubeen Garg, reflecting his enduring impact on Assamese culture and music. The university has decided to rename its Centre for Performing Arts and Culture after Zubeen Garg, recognizing him as a cultural icon whose contributions to music have touched generations. This decision is part of a broader effort to preserve his artistic legacy and inspire future generations of young artistes.

The announcement, made on X (formerly Twitter) by the university on Friday, noted that four proposals had been accepted to pay tribute to the singer-composer. Garg, who tragically passed away by drowning in Singapore on September 19, 2023, is celebrated not only for his musical talent but also for his immense popularity among the youth of Assam and beyond. By renaming the Centre for Performing Arts and Culture in his honor, the university seeks to ensure that his creative achievements remain recognized and accessible to future generations of students and artists.

In addition to renaming the Centre, the university will install a statue of Zubeen Garg on campus. The statue will be placed in front of the Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, serving as a permanent reminder of his contribution to the field of music and culture. The installation of the statue underscores the university’s commitment to celebrating local talent and preserving cultural heritage. It also offers a point of inspiration for students and visitors, who can connect with the life and work of an artist who symbolized creativity, dedication, and artistic excellence.

Further preserving Garg’s legacy, Gauhati University has announced plans to publish a coffee table book documenting his life and creative journey. This publication will include biographical accounts, highlighting his musical achievements, personal journey, and the cultural impact he had throughout his career. The coffee table book aims to provide both educational value and artistic appreciation, offering students, researchers, and fans a comprehensive look at Garg’s contributions to Assamese music and culture.

To further engage young performers and inspire emerging talent, the university will introduce a new category titled ‘Zubeen’s Songs’ in its inter-college youth festival singing competition. This initiative seeks to encourage students to explore and perform his music, thereby keeping his repertoire alive and introducing it to a new generation of musicians. By institutionalizing this category in a competitive platform, Gauhati University aims to motivate young artists to study, perform, and celebrate the works of a singer whose creativity transcended generational boundaries.

The decision to honor Zubeen Garg through multiple initiatives—renaming the Centre, installing his statue, publishing a dedicated coffee table book, and creating a competition category—reflects Gauhati University’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage and recognizing exemplary contributions in the arts. These measures ensure that Garg’s artistic achievements are formally acknowledged and that his legacy continues to influence students, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts for years to come.

In summary, Gauhati University’s initiatives underscore a holistic approach to honoring Zubeen Garg’s contributions. The renaming of the Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, the installation of his statue, the publication of a comprehensive coffee table book, and the introduction of ‘Zubeen’s Songs’ in the inter-college festival collectively ensure that the singer’s legacy remains vibrant and continues to inspire young talents. By institutionalizing these commemorations, the university not only pays tribute to a cherished cultural icon but also strengthens the connection between education, artistic excellence, and cultural preservation in Assam.