Renowned Indian singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg has passed away following a tragic scuba diving accident in Singapore. The 52-year-old artist from Assam was in the city to perform at the North East India Festival, scheduled for September 20–21.
While diving, Garg experienced severe breathing issues. He was pulled from the water and administered CPR but was declared dead at Singapore General Hospital around 2:30 PM IST. Sources told NDTV that despite attempts to revive him at the scene, he had likely passed away before reaching the hospital.
Authorities confirmed that his body will undergo a post-mortem before being returned to Assam, either today or tomorrow. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated he was in direct contact with the Indian High Commission in Singapore to ensure the swift return of Garg’s remains.
Incident Took Place Without Organisers’ Knowledge
Festival organisers were reportedly unaware of Garg's decision to go scuba diving. According to Shyamkanu Mahanta, one of the event’s organisers, the singer had gone out on a yacht with local members of the Assamese community without informing the festival team. News of the accident reached them during a meeting with Singaporean industrialists.
Following the tragedy, the organisers cancelled the remainder of the festival. Mahanta expressed deep sorrow, calling the loss “monumental.”
Zubeen Garg: A Musical Legend
Zubeen Garg was celebrated for his contributions to music across Assamese, Hindi, and Bengali films. He rose to national fame with the hit song "Ya Ali" from Gangster and followed it with popular tracks like "Dil Tu Hi Bata" from Krrish 3. He also worked as an actor and director, with successful films like Mission China, Kanchanjunga, and Dinabandhu.
In 2022, he sustained a minor head injury during a fall at a resort in Dibrugarh but had recovered after treatment.
Just days before his death, on September 16, he posted a video inviting fans to attend the festival in Singapore, promising performances in Hindi, Bengali, and Assamese.
Nationwide Condolences and Tributes
The news of Garg’s death triggered an outpouring of grief across India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed shock over Garg’s untimely death, highlighting his musical legacy and popularity across all sections of society.
Rahul Gandhi called it a “terrible tragedy” and said Garg’s music had redefined Assamese culture.
Minister Kiren Rijiju shared his condolences, calling him a “magical voice” and praising his contribution to Indian music.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said her prayers were with Garg’s family and fans, describing him as a true musical icon.
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma called the loss “tragic beyond words,” saying Garg passed away far too soon and left a void that would never be filled. He described Zubeen as someone whose music touched the soul and whose bond with the people of Assam was deeply personal.
Assam Health Minister Ashok Singhal wrote that the state had lost its "heartbeat," and Zubeen was more than a singer—he was the pride of the region.
Former MP Ripun Bora also paid tribute, calling Garg’s spirit and artistry inspirational to generations.
Survived by His Wife
Zubeen Garg is survived by his wife, fashion designer Garima Saikia Garg.
Source: NDTV