Assam dry days for Zubeen Garg mark an emotional tribute from the state
The Assam dry days for Zubeen Garg were declared on September 22 and 23, following the death of the beloved singer-actor on September 19, 2025. The state government ordered the closure of all bars, liquor outlets, and retail shops selling alcohol during this period. The move served as a symbolic gesture to honor the cultural icon, whose music and films shaped Assamese identity for more than three decades.
Assam Dry Days for Zubeen Garg: Government’s Official Order
The Excise Department of Assam issued a notification on September 21, confirming that liquor sales and bars would remain closed on September 22 and 23. The order stated that the two days would be observed as “dry days” in memory of Zubeen Garg, who passed away in Guwahati after suffering a cardiac arrest.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described Garg as “Assam’s voice and soul”, adding that the government wanted to honor his legacy in a way that reflected the people’s deep respect.
Why Assam Declared Dry Days for Zubeen Garg
Zubeen Garg was more than just an artist; he was a cultural ambassador for Assam. Declaring Assam dry days for Zubeen Garg was seen as a mark of respect, ensuring the entire state paused to reflect on his contributions.
Government officials explained that the closure of liquor shops symbolized sobriety and unity at a time of mourning. Moreover, the decision mirrored the people’s sentiments, as thousands of fans had already gathered for public memorials across Guwahati.
Public Reactions to Assam Dry Days for Zubeen Garg
Support from Citizens
Many Assamese citizens welcomed the decision. Social media platforms filled with posts praising the government’s symbolic tribute. Fans expressed that the dry days in Assam allowed communities to mourn together and celebrate Garg’s life through music, not revelry.
Opposition Voices
However, some opposition leaders criticized the move, calling it “tokenism”. They argued that instead of declaring dry days, the government should focus on establishing cultural academies or scholarships in Garg’s name to create lasting impact.
Zubeen Garg’s Legacy in Assam and Beyond
The declaration of Assam dry days for Zubeen Garg highlighted how deeply his work touched the region. Born in Jorhat in 1972, Garg rose to fame with his breakthrough Assamese album Anamika in the early 1990s.
He later gained national recognition with the Bollywood hit “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster (2006), but he always returned to Assamese music and cinema. His dedication to preserving regional art made him a household name in Assam and across the Northeast.
Mourning and Memorials Across Assam
During the dry days, Guwahati and other cities organized cultural gatherings where fans sang his popular tracks and shared stories of his kindness. Streets around his residence saw massive crowds paying homage, while television and radio stations aired tributes nonstop.
Artists, writers, and fellow musicians from across India also offered condolences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several Union ministers expressed grief over his passing, underlining Garg’s impact on Indian culture.
Assam Dry Days for Zubeen Garg: Symbolism and Politics
While the gesture was largely symbolic, analysts believe it also reflects the political importance of Garg’s legacy. His fan base cut across ethnic and linguistic lines, making him one of the few unifying figures in Assam.
Therefore, by declaring Assam dry days for Zubeen Garg, the government not only acknowledged the singer’s contribution but also strengthened its cultural connection with the people.
What Lies Ahead
Several cultural organizations are now urging the government to establish a Zubeen Garg Music and Arts Academy in Assam. Moreover, demands have surfaced for an annual state award in his name to inspire future generations of artists.
The dry days may have ended, but calls for a permanent tribute to Garg’s legacy are growing stronger. Citizens and fans continue to share memories of the artist, reminding everyone that his influence will remain alive in Assam’s cultural fabric.
Assam Dry Days for Zubeen Garg Reflect Deep Respect
The declaration of dry days for Zubeen Garg shows how deeply the state values its cultural icons. While symbolic, the move united people across Assam in mourning and remembrance.
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