Guwahati-Singapore:- In a tragic turn of events, celebrated Assamese singer and music icon Zubeen Garg passed away on Thursday following a scuba diving accident in Singapore. He was 52.
According to reports, Garg was in Singapore to perform at the 4th North East India Festival. During a recreational scuba diving session, he reportedly developed severe breathing difficulties underwater. Though rescuers pulled him out and CPR was administered immediately, his condition deteriorated. He was rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where doctors attempted intensive treatment. Despite efforts, he was declared dead at around 2:30 PM IST.
A Musical Journey that Defined Generations
Born in 1972 in Meghalaya and raised in Assam, Zubeen Garg was not just a singer but also a composer, lyricist, actor, and filmmaker. He rose to nationwide fame with the blockbuster Bollywood track “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster (2006), which became an instant chartbuster across India and beyond.
Over his three-decade-long career, Garg sang in multiple languages, including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and Nepali, carving out a unique space in India’s diverse music landscape. His Assamese hits like Buku Duru Duru became cultural anthems in the Northeast, while his Hindi songs in Bollywood added to his national recognition.
Tributes Pour In
The news of his death has sent shockwaves across India. Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his condolences, calling Garg “the voice of a generation” and “one of Assam’s dearest sons.” Fans across the Northeast have begun gathering to pay tribute, with many calling him a “legend who gave Assamese culture a global voice.”
Plans are underway to bring his mortal remains back to Assam for the last rites, which are expected to witness a massive turnout of grieving fans and admirers.
An Irreplaceable Loss
Zubeen Garg’s sudden demise marks a heartbreaking loss for India’s music industry and the Assamese cultural identity. His work transcended borders, blending folk roots with modern rhythms, and inspiring countless young musicians.
As the curtain falls on a life that sang for millions, Zubeen Garg will be remembered not just for his songs but for being the soulful bridge between Assam and the world..
