The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) on Saturday announced a Research Fellowship in honour of Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg, aiming to preserve his artistic legacy and inspire scholarly exploration of his humanitarian ideals and philosophy of cultural unity.
The fellowship was unveiled by Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque at a press conference, joined by Vice-Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma, Dr. R.K. 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.
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USTM fondly recalled Zubeen Garg’s close association with the campus, noting his visits for film shoots, including scenes from his final film, Roi Roi Binale, and his warm rapport with students and staff. The university also highlighted that it had earlier conferred an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) on the artist during its 10th Convocation, an honour he accepted with characteristic humility.
According to USTM, the fellowship has already attracted early applications from researchers interested in exploring the cultural, social, and artistic dimensions of Zubeen’s life and work. An Advisory Council comprising scholars, artists, cultural historians, and members of Zubeen’s family will guide the programme to ensure academic rigour and emotional sensitivity in its outcomes.
“Zubeen Da was not just an artist; he was an institution of emotion and empathy,” Hoque reflected.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma described the initiative as a living tribute rather than a conventional academic project. “This is not merely a scholarship. It’s a way to transform grief into inspiration — to carry forward Zubeen Da’s message of unity and humanity,” he said.
USTM has also invited cultural experts and interested individuals from across India to collaborate in the fellowship, describing it as a long-term endeavour to sustain Zubeen Garg’s creative and humanitarian legacy through continuous research and public engagement.