GUWAHATI: Assam’s celebrated singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore on Friday after a scuba diving accident. He was 52 and is survived by his wife.
According to organisers of the North East Festival, which Garg had travelled to Singapore to attend, the singer developed breathing difficulties during a dive. Despite being given CPR and rushed to Singapore General Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries in the ICU around 2.30 pm IST.
In a statement, the festival organisers said, “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Zubeen Garg’s passing. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived.”
Leaders and Public Figures React
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the news as “an immense loss to the state and the nation,” adding that Garg’s voice carried an unmatched ability to connect with people. In a post on X, he wrote:
“Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. Zubeen’s music will continue to inspire generations, and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled.”
Sarma, who was campaigning in Bodoland, announced that the BJP would suspend all election-related programmes for the day and said he was returning to Guwahati.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal called Garg’s death “an irreparable loss,” while Kiren Rijiju said India had lost a “magical voice and versatile personality.”
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi mourned him as “the pride of every Assamese,” saying his passing was both a personal and collective loss for the people of Assam. The Congress also suspended its campaign for the BTC polls for the day as a mark of respect.
Tributes Pour In
State minister Ashok Singhal said, “Assam has lost not just a voice, but a heartbeat. His music carried our culture and emotions to every corner of the world.”
Senior Congress leader Ripun Bora said Garg’s spirit inspired generations, while North East United FC described him as the “heartthrob of Assam.”
Actor Adil Hussain paid a heartfelt tribute, recalling Garg’s immense contribution to Assamese culture: “He will live among us through his songs. Goodbye, Zubeen… keep singing for the gods on the other side.”
Zubeen Garg’s death has left Assam and the Indian music world in mourning, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, fans, and artists alike.
