Emotional scenes at Guwahati airport as Zubeen Garg’s mortal remains arrive

Guwahati witnessed a deeply emotional moment as the mortal remains of popular singer Zubeen Garg were received at the city’s airport. A video shared on social media shows teary-eyed airport staff running towards the aircraft carrying the late singer’s body. Many of them were holding cameras, capturing the arrival for one last time, while tears rolled down their cheeks. The heart-wrenching footage has gone viral, evoking emotional responses from fans and netizens across the country.

Zubeen Garg, widely celebrated for his contributions to Assamese and Indian music, tragically passed away while swimming in Singapore on Friday. His sudden demise left fans, friends, and colleagues in shock. The singer’s mortal remains were immediately flown back to his home state of Assam, where preparations were made to ensure a proper reception and final respects.

Mortal remains kept at Bhogeshwar Stadium for public homage

On Sunday, thousands of fans gathered at the Arjun Bhogeshwar Barua Sports Complex in Sarusjai, Guwahati, to pay their last respects to Zubeen Garg. The crowd included people from all walks of life, united by their grief and admiration for the late singer. The scorching heat did little to deter fans, many of whom stayed overnight to ensure they could offer their respects in person.

Zubeen’s mortal remains were placed inside a pandal within the sports complex. An alternate venue was prepared within the stadium premises to account for any possible heavy rain. Fans brought pictures and cutouts of Zubeen Garg and sang his famous songs throughout the night, creating an emotional vigil that celebrated his life and contributions to music.

Assam Minister Ranoj Pegu confirmed that the government is in the process of selecting a suitable location for Zubeen Garg’s final rites. While the family will make the ultimate decision, the government is considering sites in and around Guwahati, including Sonapur, where initial inspections have taken place. Minister Pegu also mentioned that a memorial for the singer may be built at the same location, honoring his legacy for future generations.

Many fans have also suggested Jorhat, where Zubeen spent his formative years, as a potential site for his final resting place. However, sources close to the family stated that Guwahati or its suburbs might be more practical due to the advanced age of Zubeen’s father, who is 80 years old and may find it difficult to travel the 300 km distance to Jorhat.

Funeral arrangements and family’s final decision

Officials have made elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth reception of the singer’s mortal remains at Guwahati airport and the sports complex. Security personnel and volunteers helped manage the large crowds, while the administration ensured that fans could pay their respects safely. The preparations also included medical facilities, drinking water, and other amenities to accommodate the thousands who came to bid farewell.

The Assam government is actively inspecting potential sites for the cremation, including Sonapur and other suitable locations around Guwahati. Minister Pegu told the media, “We discussed yesterday that the cremation can be done in Sonapur. We have other options too. Top officials are inspecting other sites and will present all options to Zubeen Garg’s family.”

The family’s wishes will ultimately decide the location of the funeral. Following their decision, the final site will be announced after a cabinet meeting. Officials are working closely with the family to ensure the ceremony respects both tradition and the singer’s legacy.

Throughout the day, fans from different parts of Assam continued arriving at the stadium. Many were seen weeping and holding up placards, while others sang his songs as a mark of respect. The emotional scenes reflected the deep connection the singer shared with his audience over the years. His songs, which became anthems for Assamese youth and music lovers across India, resonated even more during these last moments, with fans singing along in unison.

Zubeen Garg’s influence extended beyond Assam, as his music reached national and international audiences. Over the years, he had carved a niche for himself in Indian music, known for his unique voice, heartfelt lyrics, and versatile singing style. Fans and fellow musicians alike have expressed their grief, sharing memories and tributes on social media. The viral video of Guwahati airport staff receiving his body underscores the immense love and respect that the singer commanded even among ordinary citizens.

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As the preparations for Zubeen Garg’s final rites continue, authorities have promised to coordinate with the family to ensure a dignified ceremony. The government is also taking measures to facilitate smooth traffic and public management around the sports complex and potential cremation sites.

The passing of Zubeen Garg has left a void in the Indian music industry, particularly in Assam. Fans, colleagues, and the music fraternity are united in their grief, mourning the loss of a beloved singer whose voice and music brought joy to millions. The vigil at Bhogeshwar Stadium and the reception at Guwahati airport highlight the profound impact Zubeen Garg had on his audience and the community at large.

In conclusion, the events surrounding Zubeen Garg’s return to Assam have been marked by emotion, grief, and a heartfelt farewell from his fans and the public. With the final decision on his cremation site pending the family’s approval, Assam prepares to say a dignified goodbye to one of its most cherished musical icons.