Guwahati, Sep 30 (NationPress) This year, the Durga Puja celebrations in Assam have assumed a notably solemn atmosphere as residents grieve the passing of the iconic singer Zubeen Garg. The untimely departure of this celebrated artist has overshadowed one of Assam's most colorful festivals, prompting many puja committees to adopt a more modest approach while honoring his memory.

In the Datalpara area of Guwahati, the Sarbajanin Durga Puja Committee conducted their rituals with a sense of restraint. A portrait of Garg was displayed prominently at the mandap, and devotees took time to pray in his honor.

Event organizers noted that this year’s festivities were intentionally subdued, steering clear of extravagant decorations or boisterous celebrations.

The focus remained on traditional ceremonies and Vedic chants, as participants engaged in prayers with heavy hearts.

Similar sentiments were evident in Sipajhar, where the Ganesh Kunwari Sarbajanin Durga Puja Committee commenced their Maha Ashtami rituals by paying floral tributes to Garg.

Attendees reflected on the singer’s profound ties to Assamese culture, acknowledging that his absence has created a void that no celebration can replace.

In Kampur, the atmosphere was particularly poignant. A specially arranged pandal featured illuminated portraits of Garg, attracting numerous visitors who came to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga while also honoring the late singer.

Unlike previous years, the committee opted out of decorative lighting and musical performances. Instead, the mandap was filled with the soothing aroma of incense, the sound of conch shells, and the chanting of priests.

Across Assam, community pujas this year have beautifully intertwined devotion with remembrance, as organizers found meaningful ways to pay tribute to the man often regarded as the voice and heartbeat of the Assamese people.

From cultural events to simple offerings before his portrait, tributes to Garg became an inseparable aspect of the Maha Ashtami celebrations.

For devotees, this year's Durga Puja has transformed into not only a religious event but also a collective expression of mourning. As one organizer in Guwahati expressed, “This year, our prayers are directed not only to Maa Durga but also for the peace of Zubeen da’s soul. His presence is missed in every beat of the dhol and in every corner of the mandap.”