Assam’s BTC to honour Zubeen Garg with 30-bigha riverside park on music icon’s 53rd birthday

A major cultural landmark is set to take shape in Kokrajhar as the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) moves ahead with plans for a dedicated Zubeen Garg Park on the banks of the Gourang River. Spread across 30 bighas at Chandamari, the project will formally begin on November 18, coinciding with the artist's 53rd birthday.

 

BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary will lay the foundation stone, marking the start of a park that local officials say will honour one of Assam’s most influential cultural figures. The council is also preparing a large public celebration on the same day, with the riverside area in Chandamari already buzzing with activity. Labourers, heavy machinery and volunteers have been working round the clock to ready the venue, including a stage that is still under construction.

 

The birthday event is expected to draw thousands. According to organisers, around 25,000 artists and fans from BTC’s five districts will gather to perform Garg’s popular song “Mayabini” in Assamese and Bodo. A plantation drive featuring 53 Nahor saplings will also be held as a symbolic tribute.

 

Several parts of Kokrajhar have received a facelift ahead of the ceremony. The road from Kokrajhar to Chandrapara has been freshly resurfaced, while the stretch from the main highway to the IT Park has been repaired and lined with murals depicting scenes from Garg’s career, adding colour to the area.

 

The programme on November 18 will begin with a tribute at Garg’s portrait at 9:30 am, followed by a blood donation camp. The foundation stone laying is scheduled for 10:15 am, with the Nahor plantation, cultural performances and a candlelight ceremony to follow.

 

The BTC government says the celebrations aim to showcase regional pride while highlighting the contribution of an artist who continues to shape music and culture across Assam.