The town of Cooch Behar in West Bengal has announced plans to honor the late Assamese singer and composer Zubeen Garg by erecting a statue in his memory and naming a cultural stage after him during the annual Rash Mela festival.

Although born in Assam, Zubeen Garg’s music transcended regional boundaries and gained a deep connection with the people of neighboring Bengal, especially in Cooch Behar. This district shares a close geographical and cultural border with Assam. Garg had performed in Cooch Behar multiple times, including at local cultural events and the Rash Mela, with his last performance in 2018. Rabindranath Ghosh, Chairman of the Cooch Behar Municipality, highlighted how Zubeen represented the rich cultural heritage of North Eastern India, of which Cooch Behar is an integral part.

In tribute to his legacy, the municipality plans to install his statue in the town, subject to permission from his family. Additionally, the main stage at the Rash Mela, a 20-day long cultural festival held annually in November and attended by thousands, will be named after Zubeen Garg. The stage will feature large pictures and cutouts of the singer throughout the fair.

Zubeen Garg’s association with the region was strengthened by his rendition of local folk genres such as Bhawaiya music. His famous song “Kande Kanai Bajeya re Shanai,” recorded in 2005, remains a beloved classic among the people of Cooch Behar and neighboring areas.

The initiative reflects the deep affection and respect the people of Cooch Behar have for the singer. Garg’s untimely death in September 2025 left a void in the music world, but this tribute ensures his memory will live on in the hearts of many across the Northeast and Bengal.

By commemorating Zubeen Garg in this way, Cooch Behar reinforces the cultural ties that unite Assam and Bengal and celebrates a musical icon who brought people together beyond borders.