'Zubeen is still there; Bhupen Hazarika, Jayanta Hazarika are alive again through the people': Garima Garg in Sivasagar

“Zubeen is still there. Not only Zubeen, but Bhupen Hazarika and Jayanta Hazarika are alive again.”
 

For Garima Garg, the outpouring of support for flood-affected people across Assam is a reflection of the spirit left behind by some of the state’s most beloved artists — a spirit of compassion, solidarity and standing by fellow human beings.
 

Speaking to the media during a relief distribution programme in Betbari near Sivasagar town on Sunday, August 9, Garima Garg, wife of late singer and musician Zubeen Garg, said the values represented by Zubeen Garg, Bhupen Hazarika and Jayanta Hazarika continue to live through the people of Assam.
 

She said their presence is now being felt in the way ordinary people are coming together to help those affected by the floods.
 

“Zubeen is still there, only the route has changed. We are still inspired by his actions and his love for people. Because of this energy, we are here to help the people,” Garg said.
 

Referring to Bhupen Hazarika’s immortal message of Manuhe Manuhor Babe, she said the spirit of the song was being reflected in the collective response of people during the crisis.
 

“The energy of them is now into the people of Assam,” she said, adding that people from across the state were coming forward to contribute to the relief effort.
 

Garg said the support had come from people contributing according to their means — from Rs 10 and Rs 20 to Rs 50,000 and even Rs 1 lakh.
 

“Not only we, but all the people of Assam are together in this,” she said.
 

The relief distribution programme was organised by Sur Bahini in collaboration with the Film Society of Assam, Kalaguru Artist Foundation, Guwahati Cine Musicians Association, Zubeen Fan Club and the All Hospital & Healthcare Providers (AHPI) NE1 Chapter.
 

The initiative, she said, was a reminder that the legacy of these artists lives not merely through their music, but through the people who carry forward their message of humanity.