Cotton University confers D.Litt degree on Zubeen Garg at 4th convocation

Guwahati: Assam’s cultural icon Zubeen Garg was posthumously awarded the honorary Doctor of Literature (D.Litt) degree at the 4th convocation of Cotton University on Tuesday.

His sister Palme Borthakur received the honour on his behalf. She called the moment emotional and bittersweet. She thanked the university for recognising Garg’s lifelong contribution to music, culture and society.

“This is a very big honour for us. It is an emotional moment. I am accepting this honour in his absence, which makes it more painful,” she said.

She said many people approached her brother for personal interests and very few people genuinely cared about his health and well-being.

Referring to the recent incident involving Garg, she said people across the world now know about it and the public response showed how deeply people valued him.

“The more people came to know, the more love and respect they showed him,” she said.

She said the family hopes for justice in the ongoing legal process. She said they expect a strong chargesheet so that no one involved escapes punishment.

The university awarded the honour in recognition of Garg’s lasting legacy. His work continues to inspire artistes and admirers across Assam and beyond.

Ace sprinter Hima Das also received her Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science at the same convocation.

The ceremony took place at Shankardev Kalakshetra in Panjabari. Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, who is also the Chancellor of Cotton University and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended the event.

Sarma recalled his days at his alma mater. He urged graduates to work for a self-reliant and capable Assam. In a social media post, he congratulated the graduates and asked them to make Assam proud.