Shillong, November 2, 2025 – Zubeen Garg's final cinematic masterpiece, "Roi Roi Binale," is captivating audiences across the Northeast, with screenings in Shillong running housefull. The film, which premiered on October 31, 2025, has sparked an unprecedented wave of emotion and enthusiasm among fans, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the late singer-actor.
Directed by Rajesh Bhuyan and written by Rahul Gautam, "Roi Roi Binale" was a project nearly two decades in the making. Garg envisioned a story infused with music, love, and hope, aiming to leave a lasting cinematic imprint on Assamese culture. The film is a musical love story set in a region recovering from years of conflict, with Zubeen playing a blind artist whose journey reflects resilience and the healing power of art.
The release of "Roi Roi Binale" comes just weeks after Garg's untimely passing in Singapore on September 19, 2025. His death was mourned throughout Assam, with cities shutting down for days. The premiere of the film has become a nationwide celebration of his artistry, with fans singing along to his songs in packed theaters.
In Shillong, moviegoers have flocked to cinemas, resulting in sold-out shows and a palpable sense of collective remembrance. The film has taken over screens in Assam, with many theaters scheduling as many as seven shows a day. This overwhelming response highlights the deep connection between Zubeen Garg and the people of Assam, ensuring that his final work resonates far beyond cinema screens.
"This is Zubeen Da's last film as an actor and his most personal dream," said director Bhuyan. "He was involved in every stage of its creation. Today, that dream has come true, even though he's not here to witness it". Bhuyan also revealed that most of the filming was completed before Zubeen's death, with only minor sound and background work pending. His original vocals have been preserved, with minimal AI-assisted restoration.
The Assam government has recognized Zubeen Garg's immense contribution to Assamese music and cinema by handing over the state's share of GST from "Roi Roi Binale" to the Kalaguru Artiste Foundation, which was set up by the singer for the welfare of the downtrodden. Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi has also appealed to the state government to make the film tax-free.
"Roi Roi Binale" is not just another film; it is a tribute to Zubeen Garg's creative soul and boundless love for Assamese music and storytelling. The film features 11 songs, all composed by Zubeen himself, and is the first Assamese feature to release in Dolby Atmos, marking a milestone for the state's film industry.
The film's success extends beyond Assam, with screenings in 46 cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gangtok. The pre-release business of the film reportedly crossed Rs 50 lakh, a record figure for the Assamese film industry.
As fans across the Northeast and beyond await screenings of "Roi Roi Binale," the film stands as a testament to Zubeen Garg's enduring legacy. It is a farewell from a legend who dedicated his life to music, love, and Assam's cultural pride. The upcoming Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 in Shillong will also feature a special tribute to Zubeen Garg, performed by musicians close to him.
