Zubeen’s incomplete dream home becomes shrine of grief

Guwahati: Zubeen’s dream home, a two-storey building at Kharghuli, was set to replace his old studio that was built on a traditional thatched Assam-type house on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra river in Guwahati. The studio where Zubeen composed music for many memorable films and albums was dismantled a few years ago and the building was being constructed, but it remained an “incomplete dream” for the music sensation.Fans spent hours weeping before this upcoming dream home of Zubeen, where he planned to give a new look to his studio.Zubeen’s fans gathered at the site of this incomplete dream home since Friday evening, mourning the loss of what was meant to be a new chapter in his musical journey. The location was not just a home for Zubeen; it was a sanctuary where his love for music, nature, and wildlife converged. He was known for his affection towards animals, regularly feeding birds and caring for various creatures that visited the area.According to Hareswar Mahanta, a close aide of Zubeen, the old studio was dismantled around the time of the Covid-19 pandemic. The new building is under construction, offering a panoramic view of the Brahmaputra, a source of inspiration for many legendary singers. “Despite delays due to rain, he (Zubeen) was determined to complete his dream home soon, which was to include both a studio and a residence,” Hareswar told TOI, on Saturday. The old studio held significant memories, being the birthplace of music for many popular albums and films, including “Mission China”. Musician Pankaj Bora fondly recalled Zubeen’s creativity in the studio, which was designed to minimise noise from rain on the thatched roof.National award-winning film director Sibanu Borah shared insights into Zubeen’s plans for the new home. “Zubeen envisioned a modern studio and spaces where he could gather with friends, musicians, and close associates. Although Zubeen already had a state-of-the-art studio in the Jonali area of the city, the Kharghuli studio was to be a second, cherished space for creating music,” he said.