Renowned writer and novelist Dr Rita Chowdhury on Sunday addressed a press conference in Panbazar, Guwahati, to share details about the upcoming Brahmaputra Literature Festival 2026, which will be held in Sivasagar from February 6 to February 8.
Speaking to journalists, Dr Chowdhury said the festival will be a celebration of literature, music and humanity, bringing together writers, artists, thinkers and music lovers from different parts of the country. She said the event aims to create a space where people can connect through words, rhythm and art, while also reflecting on social and cultural issues.
Dr Chowdhury explained that Sivasagar was chosen as the venue keeping in mind its historical and cultural importance. She said the organisers want to take literature beyond big cities and make it accessible to people in different regions of Assam. According to her, the festival will include discussions, readings, musical performances and interactions between writers and audiences. 
During the press conference, Dr Chowdhury also spoke at length about the late singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg and announced a meaningful initiative in his memory to support young artists in the state.
She revealed that the revenue generated from Zubeen Garg’s podcast on YouTube, amounting to USD 2,909, will be placed in a fixed deposit for a period of 20 years. The interest earned from this fund will be used to encourage and support budding artists, especially those who are struggling to find platforms and opportunities.
Dr Chowdhury said this step is part of a larger effort to ensure that Zubeen Garg’s contribution to Assam’s cultural life continues to inspire future generations. She noted that many young artists look up to Zubeen as a source of strength and motivation, and it is important to stand by them during this difficult time.
Speaking emotionally about Zubeen Garg, Dr Chowdhury said his absence has left a deep void in the hearts of his fans and admirers. “Zubeen has left a deep impression on Assam and inspired not only himself but others to keep going. In this period without Zubeen, the emptiness felt by his fans is palpable. We are committed to working from our platform for them. Zubeen is very dear to us, and I feel a responsibility towards his fans,” she said.
She added that Zubeen Garg was not just a singer but a voice of the people, whose music and words reflected the emotions, struggles and hopes of Assam. According to her, keeping his legacy alive is not limited to remembering his songs but also involves carrying forward the values he stood for.
Dr Chowdhury also spoke about plans to compile all of Zubeen Garg’s creative works and present them as a legacy for future generations. She said such an effort would help people understand the depth and range of his contribution to Assamese culture and music.
When asked about the chargesheet filed in connection with Zubeen Garg’s death, Dr Chowdhury chose to maintain restraint. She said the matter is currently before the court and she does not wish to comment on it.
“As the matter is sub judice, I do not wish to comment on it. I will continue to do what I can through my writing. We want to compile all of Zubeen Garg’s work and create a legacy. I have not seen the SIT chargesheet, but we all wish that Zubeen gets justice,” she said.
Dr Chowdhury stressed that while legal processes must take their own course, writers and cultural platforms also have a role to play in preserving memory and meaning. She said literature and art often become ways for society to heal and reflect during times of loss.
Talking further about the Brahmaputra Literature Festival, she said the 2026 edition will place special focus on human values, empathy and cultural harmony. She added that the organisers want the festival to be inclusive and welcoming, especially for young writers and artists.
Dr Chowdhury said detailed programmes and the list of participants will be announced in the coming months. She also expressed hope that people from across Assam and neighbouring states will attend the festival in large numbers.
