By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 1: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) on Saturday announced a Research Fellowship honouring Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg, a move the university says is intended to preserve his artistic legacy and promote research into his humanitarian ideals and philosophy of cultural unity.
Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque unveiled the fellowship at a press conference, accompanied by Vice-Chancellor Prof. GD Sharma, Dr. RK Sharma (Principal, IAMC), Prof. (Dr) Subhram Rajkhowa (University School of Law & Research) and Prof. (Dr) Garima Kalita (Department of English).
“Through this fellowship, we want to ensure that his ideas and spirit continue to guide generations of learners and dreamers,” Hoque said.
Recalling Zubeen’s close ties with the campus, USTM noted his visits for film shoots, including scenes from his final film, Roi Roi Binale, and highlighted his warm rapport with students and staff.
The university also reminded attendees that it had conferred an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) on Zubeen during its 10th Convocation, an honour he accepted with characteristic grace.
The fellowship has already drawn interest from early applicants keen to investigate the cultural, social and artistic dimensions of Zubeen’s life. USTM said it will form an Advisory Council of scholars, artists, cultural historians and members of Zubeen’s family to steer the programme and ensure both academic rigor and emotional sensitivity in the research outputs.
“Zubeen Da was not just an artist, he was an institution of emotion and empathy,” Hoque said.
Meanwhile, Prof. GD Sharma framed the initiative as more than a scholarship. “This is not merely an academic project. It’s a living tribute, a way to transform grief into inspiration and to carry forward Zubeen Da’s message of unity and humanity,” Prof. Sharma remarked.
It may be mentioned that the USTM has invited cultural experts and interested individuals from across India to partner in the fellowship, describing the effort as a long-term endeavour to keep Zubeen Garg’s creative and humanitarian legacy alive through sustained study and public engagement.
