Zubeen Garg Death – The cultural and musical world was struck with shock and grief on Friday, September 19, 2025, when news broke of the untimely passing of Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most celebrated singers and cultural icons. He died at the age of 52 in Singapore following a tragic swimming accident. Garg’s death has left a void not only in Assam but across India, where his contributions to music and culture were deeply admired.

Zubeen Garg had traveled to Singapore to participate in the North East India Festival, where he was scheduled to perform as one of the headline artists. On the day of the tragedy, he joined friends and associates for a yacht trip off the coast.

Reports indicate that while swimming, Garg removed his life jacket. He was later found floating unresponsive in the water. Though rushed to Singapore General Hospital, medical teams were unable to revive him. Initial accounts suggested a scuba diving accident; however, organizers of the festival later clarified that Garg developed sudden breathing difficulties after swimming.

Adding further clarity, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that Garg died while swimming without a life jacket, dispelling earlier speculation.

The Assam government swiftly declared a three-day state mourning period to honor the late singer. All official events in the state have been scaled back as a mark of respect. Government offices flew the tricolor at half-mast, and citizens across Assam observed moments of silence.

In addition, Chief Minister Sarma announced that a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry would be carried out into the circumstances surrounding Garg’s death. This decision came after multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed against both the festival organizers and Garg’s personal manager, raising questions about safety measures during the yacht trip.

Arrangements have also been made for Garg’s mortal remains to be transported from Singapore to Assam, where state honors will be given. His final rites are expected to draw massive gatherings of fans and well-wishers.

Zubeen Garg was more than a singer; he was a cultural ambassador for Assam and the North East. Known for his versatility, Garg sang in multiple languages, including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and Nepali. His Bollywood breakthrough came with the 2006 hit “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster, which became a nationwide sensation. Over his decades-long career, he released countless albums, film scores, and live performances, cementing his status as one of the most influential musicians from the region.

Tributes have poured in from across India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Garg as a “voice that connected cultures and generations,” while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi praised his contribution to Indian music and his role in putting the North East on the national cultural map. Artists, actors, and fans took to social media to share their grief, celebrating his artistry and generous spirit.

For Assam, Garg’s passing is not only the loss of a beloved musician but also of a cultural torchbearer whose influence shaped generations. His music will remain timeless, even as the state and nation mourn his absence.