Artist Repaints Zubeen Garg Mural at Ganeshguri Amid Growing Controversy

The controversy surrounding the removal of a mural depicting Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg took a fresh turn on Thursday after artist Marshall Baruah repainted the portrait at Ganeshguri Tiniali in Guwahati, drawing a large gathering of supporters, admirers and members of the public.

The original mural, painted on a flyover pillar and accompanied by the message "Comrades Never Die", had recently been erased, triggering widespread criticism on social media and among sections of Assam's cultural community. Many viewed the artwork as a tribute to the singer's enduring legacy and questioned the reasons behind its removal.

Prior to repainting the mural, Marshall Baruah had announced that he would return to the site and recreate the artwork. On Thursday afternoon, supporters gathered at Ganeshguri as the artist resumed work on the portrait, with chants and songs associated with Zubeen Garg echoing through the area.

Speaking to reporters, Baruah said he could not understand how a portrait of Zubeen Garg could be considered objectionable. He further alleged that he had faced pressure from the police and administration and claimed that he was informed he would be allowed to repaint only after July 3. He also alleged that Guwahati Police had advised him against repainting the artwork.

The issue has generated considerable public debate, with many questioning why a mural honouring one of Assam's most celebrated cultural figures was removed. Earlier, Zubeen Garg's wife, Garima Saikia Garg, had also expressed disappointment over the erasure of the portrait.

The controversy has unfolded amid ongoing beautification and infrastructure improvement works being undertaken across Guwahati ahead of the proposed visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. While public speculation has linked the mural's removal to preparations for the visit, no official explanation has yet been issued regarding the decision to erase the artwork.

Meanwhile, Assam Times has written to the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi seeking clarification on whether any Japanese authority or official requested, suggested, or expressed concerns regarding the mural before its removal. The newspaper is awaiting a response from the Embassy.