Artist Marshall Baruah Defends Zubeen Garg Mural After Removal

Guwahati: A mural of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, painted on a flyover in Guwahati, sparked intense public debate before being removed by authorities on June 18. The artwork, which featured the provocative phrase Comrades Never Die, became a lightning rod for discussions regarding public space, artistic expression, and the ongoing demand for justice for the singer. At the heart of the controversy is artist Marshall Baruah, who maintains that the project served as a necessary reflection of society.

Baruah addressed criticism regarding the mural, including claims that he was not the sole creator. While some identified artist Rishav Dutta as the lead painter, Baruah explained that he invited others to assist him because he was recovering from an accident at the time. He emphasized that the identity of the painter is secondary to the message itself. Regarding the pressure he faced during the process, Baruah noted, "Many people advised me not to do it, but nobody threatened me. What matters is how a message is perceived."

The removal of the mural by officials raised questions about the boundaries of public art. Baruah argued that his work was intended to keep public focus on Zubeen Garg and the desire for justice, dismissing concerns that a painting could pose a threat to public order. He plans to continue creating portraits of the singer across Assam despite the negativity and scrutiny he has faced. For Baruah, who counts Banksy and Pablo Picasso among his influences, the primary purpose of his work is to act as a mirror to contemporary social issues.