Guwahati: Bhabanipur MLA Phanidhar Talukdar has responded to the Assam Government’s recently issued Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) concerning the management of Zubeen Garg Samadhi Kshetra in Sonapur, emphasizing both the importance of maintaining order and the need to honor the late singer’s legacy.
Talukdar acknowledged that the SOP was a necessary measure to ensure discipline and proper upkeep at the memorial site, but expressed regret that some individuals have politicized the singer’s death instead of respecting the guidelines.
Speaking with visible emotion, the MLA reflected on his personal bond with Zubeen Garg. “I had a very close friendship with Zubeen. We spent a lot of time together. When I was the producer at Itihas Theatre, Zubeen sang all the songs for our productions,” he said, highlighting the singer’s contributions to Assam’s cultural landscape.
Describing the loss as “irreparable,” Talukdar noted that Zubeen Garg was more than just an artist; he was a friend whose voice defined a generation and left an indelible mark on Assamese music and society.
The legislator’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about the management and sanctity of the Sonapur memorial, where the Assam government has introduced new operational protocols aimed at preventing disorder and ensuring cleanliness while facilitating public visits.
Talukdar’s tribute serves as a reminder of Zubeen Garg’s enduring influence and the collective responsibility to preserve the respect and dignity of his memorial.
