The legacy of late Assamese music maestro Zubeen Garg has found a unique and deeply emotional expression. At his Kahilipara residence, artist Diganta Bharati collected the singer’s foot imprint,preserving it as a symbolic keepsake. More than a mere object, this impression represents the everlasting connection between Garg and the people of Assam, a state where his voice had long been a cultural heartbeat.
Beyond preservation
This gesture by Bharati goes further than memory-keeping. It transforms into a bridge across time, linking future generations to an artist whose songs transcended boundaries of language and region. For countless admirers, the footprint is not just a relic but a reminder that cultural icons never truly leave; they continue to inspire in new forms.
A collective homage in Assam
Ahead of Garg’s final public homage, the preserved footprints were prepared to be placed at the Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati, where thousands gathered to bid farewell. Fans arriving at Kahilipara and later at the stadium found themselves not just mourning but celebrating the man whose music was woven into Assam’s very identity.
More than music
Zubeen Garg was not just a singer; he was the voice of Assam’s emotions, struggles, and joys. With over 40 languages sung, including Assamese, Hindi, and Bengali, his versatility made him a national treasure. Yet, it was his rootedness in Assam that gave his songs an unmatched intimacy, turning him into a symbol of cultural pride.
The tragic end
On September 19, 2025, tragedy struck in Singapore when Garg met with a fatal scuba diving accident. The 52-year-old was scheduled to perform at the Northeast Festival, but despite being rescued and rushed to a hospital, doctors could not save him. His sudden demise left an irreplaceable void in India’s music scene, sending shockwaves across the nation and beyond.
The preserved footprint now stands as an enduring emblem of continuity. It reflects Assam’s determination to keep Zubeen Garg’s spirit alive, not only through his vast discography but also through meaningful symbols that resonate with collective memory.
A legacy that walks with Assam
As admirers pay tribute, one truth becomes clear: legends do not fade. They remain in every song sung, every story remembered, and now, in every step that Garg once took. Assam may have lost its beloved son, but with his footprints preserved, it ensures that Zubeen Garg will continue to walk alongside his people for generations to come.
