As thousands of fans gathered to bid farewell to singer Zubeen Garg, images went viral showing animals paying tribute. His four dogs, Iko, Diya, Rambo and Maya, were brought by his family to the public vigil, where they sat near his casket and were allowed a last look at their master. The scenes moved many across Assam and beyond.
Social media also carried photos and videos from various parts of the state showing birds perching near public portraits of Garg, cows wandering toward memorials, and stray dogs sitting quietly beside his photograph at tribute sites. Many viewers commented that the animals appeared to sense the emotion in the air and respond with presence.
Zubeen Garg’s affection for animals was well known long before his death on 19 September 2025. He opposed ritual animal sacrifice at Kamakhya Temple and used his voice to promote kindness toward all living beings. In 2018, PETA India awarded him its Hero for Animals honour in recognition of his advocacy efforts. After he passed away PETA India issued a statement calling him a friend and an inspiration to animal lovers.
The presence of his dogs at the Sarusajai Stadium where his body lay in state became one of the most poignant moments of his farewell. Family members carried them to the platform so they could see Garg one last time. For many, this symbolised the deep bond he shared with his pets and confirmed that animals too are part of relationships of love and grief.
The massive gathering of mourners at Guwahati has been recognised by the Limca Book of Records as the fourth largest public gathering globally. It is listed alongside the historic public funerals of Michael Jackson, Pope Francis and Queen Elizabeth II. While several sources call this the fourth largest worldwide gathering, there is no confirmation yet that it is India’s single largest public gathering.
Beyond the tributes themselves, grassroots animal caregivers in Assam reported a rise in community vigils where locals left food for stray animals and placed flowers near photographs of Garg. Cultural and Durga Puja committees announced they would dedicate musical tributes to remember him and highlight messages of compassion for animals.
For fans and fellow artists the images of animals honoring Garg fused together his artistic legacy and humane instincts. In Assam and across India people are remembering him not only through songs but through acts of kindness—feeding strays, speaking out for animals, celebrating his memory with heart.
