Report on the Online Event Organised by Kharkiv State Academy of Culture, Ukraine on the Life, Legacies, and Achievements of Zubeen Garg

An online international seminar was organized by the Kharkiv State Academy of Culture, Ukraine, to commemorate the life, legacies, and achievements of the late Zubeen Garg, one of India’s celebrated musical icons. The event brought together students, faculty members, and distinguished academicians from across the globe to pay tribute to the multifaceted artist whose contributions transcended music, cinema, and humanitarian service. The one-day virtual seminar served not only as a remembrance but also as an intercultural dialogue highlighting the unifying power of art and music.

The seminar was graced by Dr. Roberto Maurice Robert, Global Executive President and Hon. Chancellor of the 21st Century Open University, USA. Dr. Robert believes Zubeen Garg’s profound impact on contemporary Indian music and cultural identity, noting that his artistry symbolized the resilience and creativity of the Indian spirit. He also lauded the Kharkiv State Academy of Culture led by Prof. Alina Borysova for fostering international cultural exchange through such meaningful academic initiatives.

• The event’s lead presentation was delivered by Dr. Samikshya Madhukullya, a distinguished faculty member of the 21st Century Open University, USA. Her presentation titled Zubeen Garg: The Voice of Cultural Renaissance in Northeast India” explored how Garg’s work not only revolutionized Assamese and Indian popular music but also reflected the socio-cultural evolution of Assam. Dr. Madhukullya highlighted his versatility as a singer, composer, actor, and philanthropist, describing him as a cultural bridge between regional identity and national consciousness.

Accompanying her in the session was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anurag Hazarika, also a faculty member of the 21st Century Open University, USA, examined how Garg’s artistic journey represented a synthesis of traditional Assamese folk elements with modern global sounds, thereby creating a universal appeal that transcended linguistic and cultural barriers. He also reflected on the artist’s humanitarian efforts, including his active advocacy for youth empowerment and social awareness through music.

The faculty and students of the Kharkiv State Academy of Culture actively participated in the seminar, engaging in an insightful interactive session following the presentations. They expressed deep admiration for Zubeen Garg’s artistic legacy and recognized his contribution to the global understanding of India’s diverse cultural heritage. The discussion also emphasized how artists like Zubeen Garg serve as cultural ambassadors, fostering harmony and empathy through creative expression.

The seminar concluded with a collective tribute video featuring musical excerpts and messages from students across Ukraine and India, symbolizing the enduring influence of Zubeen Garg’s music on young generations worldwide. The event successfully bridged cultures, reaffirming that art knows no boundaries.

In essence, the online seminar organized by the Kharkiv State Academy of Culture, Ukraine, stood as a heartfelt homage and an academic celebration of Zubeen Garg’s immortal contributions to music, cinema, and humanity, reinforcing the idea that cultural icons continue to inspire long after their physical presence fades.