Singapore: Celebrated Assamese singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg has passed away at age 52 following a tragic scuba-diving mishap in Singapore, where he had gone to perform at the North East India Festival.
Incident and medical care
According to multiple sources, the accident occurred during a dive in Singapore. Singapore police rescued him from the sea following the incident and transported him to a hospital. He was placed in the intensive care unit, but despite medical efforts, doctors were unable to revive him.
Purpose in Singapore
Zubeen Garg had travelled to Singapore to be part of the North East India Festival, where he was scheduled to perform. His sudden accident and subsequent passing shocked fans and members of the cultural community who had been looking forward to his performance.
Reaction and condolences
The news has provoked an outpouring of grief across Assam, the Northeast, and all over India. Assam’s Health & Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal confirmed the death and expressed sorrow, calling Zubeen Garg “not just a voice, but a heartbeat of Assam.”
Fans, colleagues, and political leaders alike have offered condolences, remembering him as a cultural force whose songs, identity, and spirit transcended regional boundaries.
Legacy
Born Zubeen Borthakur, Zubeen Garg was widely recognised for his contributions to Assamese music and Indian regional arts. His discography spans many genres, including Assamese folk, Indian pop, filmi, rock, and more. His influence was such that he became a unifying icon for multiple generations.