Popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, who rose to national fame with his superhit song Ya Ali, died during a sea outing in Singapore. The 52-year-old artist was scheduled to perform at the North East Festival on Saturday. According to sources, while 52-year-old Garg was on a sea outing he fell unwell, and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Doctors placed him under intensive care, but he did not survive. His sudden death has shocked fans and the Assamese community, leaving a deep void in India’s music industry. advertisement Tributes and condolences have been pouring in from across the Northeast, and beyond as people mourn the loss of Assam's OG pop balladeer. He wove raw emotion into every note that defined generations. Organisers of the North East Festival announced the tragic news in a statement. "It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Zubeen Garg's passing. While scuba diving, he experienced breathing difficulties and was immediately given CPR before being rushed to Singapore General Hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he was declared dead in the ICU around 2.30 PM IST," the statement read.TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR ZUBEEN GARG Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma mourned Zubeen Garg's death on social media. In a post on X, he wrote, "Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. I am in a loss of words to describe what Zubeen meant for Assam. He has gone too early, this was not an age to go. Zubeen's voice had 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 (sic)."
Former Rajya Sabha MP, Ripu Bora paid his last respects to the singer on X. He wrote, "Deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely demise of our cultural icon, Zubeen Garg. His voice, music, and indomitable spirit inspired generations across Assam and beyond. My heartfelt condolences to his family, fans, and loved ones. Rest in peace, Legend (sic)." Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday said he has spoken to Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Shilpak Ambule, regarding bringing singer Zubeen Garg's body back to the state. He added that the Indian High Commission is in touch with Singaporean authorities, who will decide if an autopsy is required. "If an autopsy needs to be done, Zubeen's mortal remains are likely to reach Assam by Saturday evening," Chief Minister Sarma said. Actor Adil Hussain mourned the singer's death. His post on X 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... Goodbye Zubeen Until we meet on the other side... Keep singing with your beautiful voice and make Gods happy (sic)." advertisement Twenty-three years ago, Zubeen's sister, Jonkey, met with a road accident that resulted in the death of the 20-year-old singer and actor. Her death in 2002 left young Zubeen devastated and shaped his music, spirit, and musical journey. Often referred to as the voice of Assam, Zubeen rose to national fame with his soulful track Ya Ali from the film Gangster. The song became a chartbuster across India. He also delivered other Bollywood hits like Dil Tu Hi Bataa (Krrish 3) and Jaane Kya Chahe Man (Pyaar Ke Side Effects). In addition to Hindi, he recorded songs in native language Assamese, Bangla, Nepali, and several other regional languages, building a loyal fanbase across diverse audiences. - Ends Published By: Prateek Chakraborty Published On: Sep 19, 2025 Tune In ALSO READ | Remembering Zubeen Garg, the Ya Ali singer and Assam's cultural icon who lives on (责任编辑:) |