Assam is closed, maybe for a day or two, but the mood of the people is electrifying, and the sorrow continues.

The massive assemblage enters the Limca Book of Records as the world's fourth-largest gathering, after Michael Jackson, Pope Francis, and Queen Elizabeth.

The widespread mourning following Zubeen’s death on September 19, 2025, spotlights his unifying legacy. People from all walks of life- politicians, artists, tribal leaders, and ordinary citizens, from all religions gathered in Guwahati, with thousands lining the streets and singing Mayabini as his coffin was brought from the airport.

The Assam government’s decision to honor him with full state honors and a three-day mourning period reflects his role as a unifying figure. Even debates over his cremation site, between Jorhat and Guwahati, highlighted how deeply communities across Assam felt connected to him, each claiming him as their own.

It is eventually decided that Zubeen Garg’s last rites will be scheduled for September 23, 2025, at 8 AM at Dichang, near Guwahati, Assam. The cremation will be conducted with full state honors, as announced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The decision to hold the cremation at Kamarkuchi NC village near Guwahati was made during a cabinet meeting, prioritizing the family’s preference due to the inability of Zubeen's octogenarian father to travel to Jorhat, despite demands from Jorhat residents for the cremation to be held there.

The Assam government has proposed Sonapur, on the outskirts of Guwahati, as a potential cremation site, with nearly 30 bighas of land offered for the purpose. Residents have begun preparations at the site.

After the arrival of his mortal remains, an emotional Garima Saikia Garg, his wife, made a public appeal to withdraw FIRs filed against the singer’s manager, Siddhartha Sharma, emphasizing his close relationship with the family, requesting his inclusion in Zubeen’s final journey, expressing the family wanted Zubin to leave in peace.

.Bridging divides through his music, charisma, and social contributions, his untimely passing on September 19, 2025, has only amplified the recognition of his role as a unifying figure, as seen in the outpouring of grief and tributes from diverse communities.

His music transcended linguistic and regional boundaries, making him a beloved figure in Assam and across India. His versatility in singing in Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Bodo, Karbi, Mising, Tiwa, and other languages fostered a sense of inclusivity.

His ability to perform in multiple languages made him a cultural ambassador, connecting Assam’s unique identity to the broader Indian ethos. For instance, his work in Bollywood and regional cinema showcased Assam’s talent on a national stage, fostering pride and unity among Assamese people while earning admiration from other linguistic groups.

Zubeen was known for championing the causes of marginalized communities in Assam, including indigenous tribes and economically disadvantaged groups. His songs often carried messages of social justice, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation, resonating with groups like the Bodos, Misings, and Karbis.  During the pinnacle of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, he and his wife, Garima, offered a two-storeyed building in Guwahati, co-owned with three partners, to the state government for conversion into a COVID-19 care facility after seeing the rising number of cases. The people of Assam recall that gesture with tears in their eyes.

He once said in an interview, "I am not political....." but admitted he has a leaning towards the socialist left because every artist has that inclination.  

His music and public persona celebrated the state’s heritage while advocating for unity amidst diversity. During protests like the anti-CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) movement, his songs and presence provided emotional strength, rallying people across political and social divides. His ability to connect with both rural and urban audiences made him a figure who transcended class and caste.

Zubeen’s appeal cut across generations, uniting young fans with older admirers. His modern renditions of traditional Bihu songs and his Bollywood hits attracted younger audiences, while his respect for Assam’s folk traditions endeared him to older generations. His concerts were melting pots where people of all ages sang along to his music, creating shared experiences that strengthened communal bonds.

Beyond music, Zubeen’s philanthropy and activism united communities. He supported causes like flood relief, education for underprivileged children, and healthcare initiatives in Assam, such as visiting flood-affected areas or raising funds for the needy.  

As seen in the collective grief and tributes following his passing, Zubeen’s voice remains a powerful force, bringing together people in shared love and respect for his contributions.

His last song in Singapore, "Tears of Heaven," raises goosebumps with the words, "Would you know my name, If I saw you in Heaven?..." The strengthening comfort of Heaven, with the hope of something greater after the arduous journey on Earth, has resonated with every people group, caste, and religion. He became a powerful unifying force while passing on. At his death, astonished people exclaimed, "Never knew that Zubeen was so famous in Assam!"