The Sivasagar Baptist Church has announced that this year’s Christmas celebrations will be held in a very simple and prayerful manner as a mark of respect and tribute to late Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg. The church has decided that there will be no lighting decorations, no feast, and no evening programme during the Christmas season. Church members said the decision was taken to honour Zubeen Garg’s memory and to show solidarity with the grief felt across Assam after his passing. They added that the celebration will focus only on prayer, reflection, and spiritual observance.
The church stated that Christmas is normally celebrated with great enthusiasm, with lights, community feasts, and cultural programmes. However, this year they want the festival to remain peaceful and meaningful, and to express love and remembrance for Zubeen Garg through simplicity.
This decision follows a major tribute event held on October 17 at the historic Boarding Field in Sivasagar. On that day, people from all walks of life gathered to pay homage to Zubeen Garg, marking 28 days since his passing. The day-long programme was filled with emotional expressions of respect, remembering his extraordinary musical journey, his contribution to Assamese culture, and his impact on generations of music lovers. Many eminent personalities were present alongside thousands of fans who came to show their love and admiration. Singer Hem Saikia also attended the programme despite facing health issues, showing the deep emotional bond artists share with Zubeen Garg.