Embracing the noble philanthropic ideals of the legendary musician Jayanta Hazarika and the beloved singer Zubeen Garg, the Xur Bahini has taken to the streets of Guwahati to extend a helping hand to the flood-affected people of Assam.
Continuing the noble tradition of the iconic artist Jayanta Hazarika, his family and friends united once again on the second day to perform musical renditions on the streets, gathering vital aid to support those devastated by the floods.
Garima Saikia Garg, wife of renowned artist Zubeen Garg, along with members of Jayanta Hazarika’s family and their peers, has undertaken a noble initiative to seek aid for flood-affected communities. Several organisations have joined hands in this collaborative endeavour to support the flood victims of Assam. This mass outreach campaign is a joint effort spearheaded by Chalachitra Samaj Asom, Kalaguru Artist Foundation, Guwahati Cine Musicians Association, Zubeen Fan Club, and the Association of Healthcare Providers India (AHPI NE1 Chapter). The relief collection drive commenced at Jalukbari and concluded its journey at Ulubari in Guwahati.
Regarding the public outreach rally, Garima Saikia Garg remarked: “Carrying the core ideals of legendary artists Jayanta Hazarika and Zubeen Garg deep within our hearts, we have stepped out onto the streets. Throughout this journey, the public has embraced us with an overwhelming wave of warmth and support. Every single person we meet yearns to stand by those in distress, readily extending a helping hand within their means. In our initial phase, the Kalaguru Artist Foundation and the Zubeen Garg Fan Club joined forces to organise a five-day relief camp. At a time when flood-affected families were in desperate need of food, clean drinking water, and essential medicines, we stepped in and have already successfully distributed these life-saving supplies.”
She added that they would be visiting the flood-affected areas for the second time, noting that several organisations had joined forces for this mission. This time, they would be carrying essential relief materials specifically needed for the rehabilitation of the flood victims. Furthermore, she mentioned that an experienced team of medical professionals would accompany them. According to their schedule, they are set to depart for Upper Assam on August 8th. Following their arrival, they will host two free medical camps and distribute the essential supplies from August 9th to August 11th. Expressing her gratitude, she highlighted how deeply moving it was to see people coming together to support one another during such a crisis. She concluded with a heartfelt wish that the spirit of unity and solidarity remains forever woven into the fabric of Assam.
“The government surely feels the pain of our people who have been severely broken by these floods,” said Garima Saikia Garg, advocating for the crisis to be declared a national disaster. She highlighted that such a designation is vital to launching the large-scale measures needed for a permanent solution, urging the government to step up and act now.
“Back in the 1970s, the iconic Jayanta Hazarika started the Xur Bahini, a golden era we didn’t get to see ourselves. However, when Zubeen Garg revived this incredible journey, we joined him immediately and have been part of his vision ever since.”
She added that since 2004-05, Zubeen Garg had always thrown himself into the service of the people, not just during floods, but whenever Assam faced a crisis. “If he were alive today, he would have been at the forefront of the flood relief efforts. We are simply dedicated to carrying his noble legacy forward,” stated Garima Saikia Garg.
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