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In an unexpected tragedy, Assam’s most beloved singer, Zubeen Garg has passed away. An extremely popular name in the music industry, Zubeen Garg was famed for his iconic hit Ya Ali. The tragic incident happened when Garg was scuba diving in Singapore. More than just a performer, Zubeen Garg was a bridge between cultures and generations. Having sung in over 40 languages, and composed music, Garg gave Assam its voice on the national stage. His sudden death leaves a void not only in the music industry, but in the hearts of millions of people.
News regarding Zubeen Garg’s sudden death
Zubeen Garg was in Singapore for the 4th North East India Festival, where he was expected to perform on September 20th and 21st, 2025. Not just a performer, but also a cultural brand ambassador for the festival, the news of Zubeen Garg’s death has sent shockwaves through Assam and beyond.
As per reports, the singer, aged 52 experienced breathing difficulties while diving, when he fell into the sea. He was rescued, given CPR and admitted to the ICU at the Singapore General Hospital immediately after, but unfortunately passed away thereafter.
Autopsy protocols are reportedly in motion in Singapore, and the singer’s body is to be flown back to Assam.
Tributes to Zubeen Garg
Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma called Garg “one of Assam’s favourite sons”, and expressed that the state has lost not just a singer, but an icon whose voice and music had a deep connection with the people.
In a post made on X, he said, “Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. I am in a loss of words to describe what Zubeen meant for the state. He has gone too early, this was not an age to go.” Further, he added, “Zubeen’s voice has an unmatched ability to energise people and his music spoke directly to our minds and souls. He has left a void that will never be filled. Our future generations will remember him as a stalwart of Assam’s culture, and his works will inspire more talented artists in the days and years to come.”
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Kiren Rijiju expressed, “We have lost a magical voice and a versatile personality. His evergreen songs will inspire talented artists for generations to come. I pray for his departed soul.”
The Cabinet Minister of Assam, Ashok Singhal had confirmed the death of singer Zubeen Garg on X on Friday afternoon, with a post, “Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of our beloved Zubeen Garg. Assam has lost not just a voice, but a heartbeat. Zubeen da was more than a singer, he was the pride of Assam and the nation, whose songs carried our culture, our emotions, and our spirit to every corner of the world. He further wrote, “In his music, generations found joy, solace, and identity. His passing leaves behind a void that can never be filled. Assam has lost its dearest son, and India has lost one of its finest cultural icons. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and countless fans. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire forever. Om Shanti.”
Actor Adil Hussain also shared his condolences upon the news of the singer’s death. He shared a post on X which read, "Devastated and shocked by the news of Zubeen Garg’s sudden death in an accident in Singapore. I am so very sad. His contribution to Assamese music and culture is extraordinary. He will live amongst us through his songs. Dear Zubeen I remember you with lots of love and fondness. May his singing soul rest in peace and God bless his soul. Goo bye Zubeen. Until we meet on the other side. Keep singing with your beautiful Voice and make Gods Happy.”
About Zubeen Garg
Born in Tura, Meghalaya, Zubeen was raised largely in Assam. His father, Mohini Mohon Borthakur, popularly known by the pen name Kapil Thakur, was a poet and lyricist, and his mother, Ily Borthakur was a singer.
Garg had an early exposure to music that began during his formative years, and thereafter he was trained in singing and learnt musical instruments as well. Having made his debut in 1992 with the Assamese album Anamika, over time, Zubeen had released numerous music albums. He sang in different languages like Hindi, Bengali, and other regional and tribal languages and dialects. Instrumentally versatile as well, Zubeen knew how to play 12 instruments.
His big Bollywood break came with the song Ya Ali from the film Gangster (2006), which made him a popular name across the country. Since then, Zubeen has contributed to many films and albums, both as a playback singer and in regional music, accruing a large fanbase. One of the most recognised voices from Northeast India has truly created a void.