A Poem in Bronze: Life-Size Statue of Zubeen Garg Unveiled in Guwahati

Guwahati witnessed a moment of quiet emotion and cultural remembrance on Wednesday as a life-size statue of legendary musician Zubeen Garg was unveiled at the campus of Royal Global University. 

The tribute brought together artists, academics, students, and admirers of a man whose voice has long echoed through the soul of Assam.

The statue was inaugurated by eminent poet, translator, and literary critic Prof. Pradip Acharya, in the presence of Zubeen Garg’s sister Dr. Palmee Borthakur, sculptor Lakhyajit Bora, and members of the academic community. Standing nearly ten feet tall, the sculpture captures not just the likeness of the artist but the spirit of a restless creator who has always walked his own path.

Welcoming the gathering, Prof. Amarjyoti Choudhury described the statue as “a poem in bronze,” expressing hope that it would inspire future generations to pursue creativity with integrity and courage—qualities deeply associated with Zubeen Garg’s life and work.

In his address, Prof. Acharya reflected on Zubeen Garg as a rare meeting point of art, conscience, and courage. Calling him “the wanderer,” he spoke of how Zubeen’s music remains rooted in the soil of Assam while reaching far beyond it, giving voice to human emotions, social realities, and collective aspirations. His words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom have grown up with Zubeen’s songs as part of their personal and cultural memory.

The programme also featured a moving musical tribute. Sanjeev Rabha’s saxophone performance filled the air with nostalgia, while Susanta Chowdhury’s renditions of Zubeen Garg’s songs stirred emotions across generations present at the event.

The unveiling of the statue follows a series of tributes paid to the artist earlier this year. On November 18, 2025, marking Zubeen Garg’s birth anniversary, a commemorative book titled “Zubeen: Twenty Songs and Seven Portraits” was released, along with the announcement of a scholarship and the unveiling of a memorial installation reflecting on his journey, music, and philosophy of life.

Together, these gestures reflect the enduring bond between the artist and the people of Assam. Zubeen Garg’s voice—sometimes rebellious, sometimes tender—has long been more than music. It has been memory, protest, love, and belonging. The statue now stands as a silent reminder of a life that continues to sing in the hearts of millions.

Also Read: 13th Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics™ forum opens at Royal Global University, calls for mountain-centred climate action