A new plant species discovered in Assam has been named after Zubeen Garg by researchers of Gauhati University.
Assam : 14 March :
Researchers Barnali Das and Professor Namita Nath from the Department of Botany at Gauhati University, Assam, have discovered a new plant species. Found in Assam, this newly identified species has been named after the famous Assamese singer and youth icon, Zubeen Garg. From the world of botany, this stands as a rare tribute to the late artist.

Barnali Das and Namita Nath, in collaboration with Dr. Prashobh Pulprar of N.S.S. College, Kerala, published details of this species Osbeckia zubeengargiana in the international taxonomy journal Phytotaxa. This new plant belongs to the Melastomataceae family, whose members are widely distributed across the world and admired for their striking flowers. According to the researchers, the species is closely related to Osbeckia rostrata, but differs in leaf structure, flower arrangement, shape of the calyx, and seed morphology. Typically, the plant grows up to 3.5 meters tall and bears pink flowers.

Barnali Das’s discovery not only enriches botanical science but also immortalizes Zubeen Garg, ensuring that his legacy lives on alongside his popular songs.

Photo credit to Barnali Das.