Assam and India mourn the tragic loss of beloved singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg, who died on September 19, 2025, due to drowning in Singapore. Garg was attending the Northeast India Festival, where he was scheduled to perform on September 20 and 21. The incident reportedly occurred while he was swimming; he experienced breathing difficulties and was given CPR before being rushed to Singapore General Hospital. Unfortunately, despite intensive care, he was declared dead in the ICU at around 2:30 PM IST.
Zubeen Garg, aged 52, was a celebrated artist known for his extensive body of work including the famous Bollywood song “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster, as well as over 38,000 songs in multiple languages. He was deeply loved across Assam and the Northeast for his ability to blend folk, pop, and rock music and for being a symbol of cultural pride.
His funeral will be held on September 23, 2025, in Kamarkuchi NC village near Guwahati, Assam, with full state honours following the family’s wishes. Prior to the cremation, his mortal remains will be available for public viewing at the Arjun Bhogeshwar Baruah Sports Complex in Guwahati on the same day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Large crowds of fans have already gathered in Assam to pay their final respects, participating in a solemn procession where flowers were showered in tribute.
Authorities are managing crowd control and traffic around the procession route and viewing venue to ensure public safety. Zubeen’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, has called for a peaceful and dignified farewell, urging fans to maintain decorum amid the overwhelming grief.
His passing has deeply affected the cultural community and fans, marking an irreplaceable loss to Assamese music and culture. Zubeen Garg’s legacy as a talented musician, philanthropist, and beloved public figure will continue to inspire generations to come. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and numerous other leaders have expressed condolences, recognizing his profound contribution to India’s cultural tapestry.
The final rites and the mournful ceremonies will not only be a tribute to the artist’s extraordinary life but also a moment for collective reflection and gratitude for the joy and unity his music brought to millions.
