Guwahati, June 19, 2026: Xorogi Xopun, one of the last songs recorded by celebrated Assamese singers Zubeen Garg and Gayatri Hazarika before their passing, was released on Sunday as part of the release journey of the upcoming Assamese feature film Dipholu.
Recorded in 2025 specifically for the film, the romantic duet brings together two voices that continue to occupy a special place in Assam’s cultural consciousness. The song was unveiled at a tribute event in Guwahati, where the makers chose to honour the legacy of the two artistes rather than opt for a conventional promotional launch.
Released on June 15 across major audio streaming platforms, the song has already begun drawing attention from fans of both artistes.
The release carries special emotional significance as it comes after the passing of both artistes. Gayatri Hazarika passed away on May 16, 2025, following a battle with cancer, while Zubeen Garg passed away on September 19, 2025. Unreleased until now, Xorogi Xopun stands as one of the last songs recorded by the two singers and offers audiences an opportunity to hear their voices together once again.
For audiences across India, Zubeen Garg is remembered not only as one of Northeast India’s most influential musical icons but also for popular Hindi songs such as Ya Ali, Jaane Kya Chahe Mann and Subah Subah. Alongside Gayatri Hazarika, whose soulful voice earned her a devoted following across Assam and beyond, he helped define a significant chapter in contemporary Assamese music.
Speaking on the occasion, director Nekib said the team felt a deep responsibility to honour the voices behind the song before introducing it to audiences.
“The presence of Zubeen Da’s voice in our film is a blessing in itself. Added to that is Gayatri Ba’s beautiful voice, which gives the song a unique emotional depth. For us, Xorogi Xopun is much more than a film song. It carries memories, emotions and the legacy of two artistes who have shaped Assamese music in their own extraordinary ways. We felt it was only appropriate that our film’s release journey begin with a tribute to them,” he said.
Reflecting on the recording sessions, Nekib described them as among the most memorable moments of the film’s journey.
“Watching Zubeen Da record was an experience in itself. Witnessing his creative process was as thrilling and captivating as attending an international live performance. Gayatri Ba brought incredible warmth, sincerity and dedication to her work. We were fortunate to work with both of them, and while their absence is deeply felt today, their voices and memories will remain with us forever,” he added.
Music director and producer Jekiv said the song has acquired a significance that extends far beyond its role in the film.
“When we recorded Xorogi Xopun, none of us imagined that it would eventually become one of the last songs recorded by both Zubeen Da and Gayatri Ba. Today, the song carries a meaning far beyond cinema. It preserves the voices of two artistes who shaped the musical identity of Assam and gives audiences an opportunity to experience them together once again. We consider it a privilege to bring this song to listeners.”
According to the filmmakers, Xorogi Xopun occupies a crucial place in the narrative of Dipholu, serving as an emotional bridge that connects themes of love, romance, humour, responsibility and social consciousness.
Adding to the emotional significance of the occasion, members of Jontro, the iconic band closely associated with Zubeen Garg, including Partha Pratim Goswmi and Raja Baruah, attended the event and paid tribute to both artistes.
Produced by Jekiv and directed by Nekib, Dipholu marks Borluit Productions’ entry into feature-length cinema following its acclaimed short films Rong – The Colour and Akaax Bisari – Into the Sky. Rooted in the realities of Assamese village life, the film blends humour, emotion and a strong social message while celebrating the culture, traditions and spirit of Assam.
Apart from Zubeen Garg and Gayatri Hazarika, the film’s soundtrack also features voices such as Rupali Kashyap, Rakesh Reeyan and Montumoni Saikia. The lyrics have been written by Nekib, while the music has been composed and directed by Jekiv. One of the songs has also been penned by Gargee Bhattacharjee.
The film stars Amrita Gogoi, Subrat Deori, Arun Nath, Arun Hazarika, Purnada Hazarika, Rajib Dowari, Jyotishman Borah, Kanika Nath, Anirban Kalita, Ankur Baidya, Dr. Hitesh Baruah, Simashree Bora, Priyanshi Kashyap and Dibya Jyoti Borah, with veteran actress Mridula Barua appearing in a special role.
As Dipholu moves towards its theatrical release, Xorogi Xopun offers more than a memorable melody. It serves as a tribute to two extraordinary voices whose music continues to resonate across generations, ensuring that their artistic legacy finds new listeners and renewed meaning through cinema.
