Shillong: The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), Shillong campus, is set to host a two-day national seminar examining the life, art, and societal impact of late Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg.
Sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR-NERC), the seminar will be held on March 26 and 27 at the university’s Multipurpose Hall.
Titled “Society and Culture in Art and Philosophy of Life: Understanding the Cultural Praxis and Epoch-making of Zubeen Garg and the North-East India,” the seminar aims to critically assess Garg’s influence on the cultural and social landscape of the Northeast.
Organised jointly by EFLU’s Departments of Journalism and Mass Communication and English Language Education, the event brings together scholars, artists, and students from across the country.
The inaugural session will feature addresses by EFLU Vice Chancellor N. Nagaraju and Shillong campus Director Mousumi Guha Banerjee. Guwahati-based columnist Hemchandra Pathak will attend as Chief Guest, while social worker Evanisha Pathaw will be the Guest of Honour.
Filmmaker and author Parthajit Baruah is scheduled to deliver the keynote address, focusing on Zubeen Garg’s cinematic and performative dimensions.
A highlight of the opening day will be a panel discussion moderated by Manash Pratim Goswami, featuring speakers including Sabita Sharma, Jayanta Bordoloi, Pallavi Devi, and Avinibesh Sharma, who will reflect on Zubeen Garg’s multifaceted career and enduring influence.
The seminar will also include a special online lecture by Dolly Kikon from California and a plenary lecture by Bonojit Hussain. Over two days, participants will present research papers exploring themes such as the sonic politics of Zubeen Garg’s music, his role in shaping contemporary Assamese identity, and his engagement with environmental and ecological concerns.
Scholarly discussions will further examine concepts like “Zubeenism” as a political philosophy, the role of folk-fusion in preserving intangible heritage, and eco-poetic elements in his songs in comparison with those of Bhupen Hazarika.
The academic sessions will be complemented by cultural tributes, including musical performances by EFLU students dedicated to Garg’s work.
The valedictory session will feature a remembrance by veteran musician Lou Majaw, along with talks by Palme Borthakur and Jyotirmoy Prodhani. The seminar’s co-convenor Arzuman Ara will deliver a special address, followed by remarks from B. Panda.
Organised in association with The Assam Tribune and with media partnership from Northeast Now, the seminar will conclude with the symbolic planting of a Nahor sapling on campus, marking a tribute to Zubeen Garg’s enduring legacy.