Zubeen Garg to be cremated with state honours on September 23: Assam CM
Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the state government will cremate the late singer Zubeen Garg with full state honours on September 23.
He announced the decision on Sunday following a cabinet meeting, stating that the cremation would take place at Kamarkuchi, near Dichang Resort in Jorabat, just a few kilometres from Guwahati.
Thousands of people from across Assam have been visiting Guwahati to pay tribute to the cultural icon, who passed away in Singapore on September 19.
Cremation Location Chosen After Family Consultation
Although many in Jorhat requested the government to conduct the cremation in their city, where Garg spent his formative years, CM Sarma clarified that the final decision rested with the family. He said Zubeen Garg’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, and other family members chose the Guwahati location due to logistical challenges and the health condition of Zubeen's father.
"The people of Jorhat will still be part of the farewell," said Sarma. "We plan to carry his ashes to Jorhat and build a memorial site (Samadhi Kshetra) there to honour his deep ties with the city."
Public Viewing Extended for Mourning Fans
The government has kept Bhogeswar Baruah Stadium in Sarusajai open 24x7, allowing fans to pay their final respects. CM Sarma acknowledged the overwhelming turnout and announced that the singer’s body would remain at the stadium through Monday to accommodate the surge of mourners.
“People want to see their beloved Zubeen one last time. We understand and respect their emotions,” he said.
State Mourning Extended; Government Promises Dignified Farewell
The Assam government, which had earlier declared a three-day state mourning, extended the period by one more day to coincide with the cremation on September 23. All official functions, entertainment events, and celebrations have been cancelled as a mark of respect.
CM Sarma also assured the public that the government would construct a Samadhi (memorial site) at Kamarkuchi, close to where Zubeen will be cremated.
Cause of Death Confirmed as Drowning
The Singapore government has issued a death certificate confirming that Zubeen Garg died by drowning. According to reports, he was swimming in the sea without a life jacket when the incident occurred. While the post-mortem report is still pending, Singapore authorities have relayed the preliminary cause to Indian officials.
Assam’s Chief Secretary has contacted the Singapore High Commission to expedite the post-mortem documentation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly assured full cooperation in the matter.
Government Rules Out Conspiracies; CID Begins Formal Probe
Authorities urged the public to avoid spreading conspiracy theories about Zubeen’s death. The CID has received 54 formal complaints and is in the process of recording statements. Officials emphasized that since the death occurred in Singapore, the local authorities there are handling the investigation.
“All speculation is premature and could disrupt public peace,” warned a government spokesperson. “Let the investigation proceed based on facts.”
Family Addresses Involvement of Public Figures
The family issued a statement confirming that Shyamkanu Mahanta and Siddharth Sharma, two figures closely associated with Zubeen’s public life, will not participate in the cremation. Garima Saikia Garg further clarified, “There’s no need for Siddharth Sharma to be involved at this moment. We are not taking any steps in that direction.”
Emotions High, Legacy Unmatched
Zubeen Garg’s death has left an enormous void in the cultural and musical landscape of Assam. Tributes have poured in from all corners of the state, and fans continue to gather in large numbers to bid their final goodbye. As preparations for the cremation continue, the government and the family also remain committed to offering a farewell that reflects the legendary status of the artist.