In a poignant display of devotion, thousands of fans gathered at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex in Guwahati's Sarusajai on Sunday to pay their final respects to beloved Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg, who tragically passed away in Singapore on Friday. The overwhelming outpouring of grief turned the venue into a sea of sorrow, with admirers from across Assam converging to bid farewell to the artist who touched countless hearts through his soulful melodies.
Many fans, undeterred by the relentless heat, had camped outside the stadium overnight, their voices rising in harmonious tribute as they sang Garg's timeless hits. Cut-outs of the singer were held high like beacons of remembrance, symbolizing the unbreakable bond between the artist and his devotees. As dawn broke, more mourners arrived, swelling the crowds and creating an electric atmosphere of collective mourning.
The administration orchestrated meticulous arrangements to accommodate the massive turnout, erecting a pandal within the sports complex for the public viewing of Garg's mortal remains. An alternative site was prepared inside the stadium premises to mitigate potential disruptions from heavy rains. Public homage was scheduled from 9 am to 7 pm, allowing fans ample time to pay their respects.
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However, the procession faced delays as Garg's body, arriving at Guwahati airport around 7 am, was en route to his Kahilipara residence before proceeding to Sarusajai. Thousands lined the airport-to-stadium route, their presence slowing the cortege and amplifying the emotional intensity of the moment.
The midday sun exacerbated the challenges, with several mourners fainting from heat exhaustion amid the packed venue. Despite the hardships, the resilient fans waited patiently, their determination unwavering in the face of adversity. Medical teams were on standby to provide aid, underscoring the administration's commitment to ensuring safety during this somber event.
Zubeen Garg's untimely demise has left an indelible void in the Assamese cultural landscape. Known for his versatile voice and deep connection with the masses, his legacy will endure through the songs that continue to resonate. As the day unfolds, the vigil at Sarusajai serves as a testament to the profound impact one man's music can have, uniting a community in shared grief and eternal admiration.
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