Renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, famous for his hit song “Ya Ali,” has died in a scuba diving accident in Singapore. The 52-year-old artist was scheduled to perform at the North East Festival.
According to reports, Zubeen Garg fell into the water while scuba diving and was rescued by Singapore police, who took him to a nearby hospital. Despite being in intensive care, he passed away, leaving a deep void in India’s music industry and shocking his fans and the Assamese community.
Zubeen Garg passes away at 56 in Singapore
The North East Festival organizers released a statement announcing his tragic death. “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Zubeen Garg’s passing,” they stated. “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 p.m. IST.”
Assam CM pours condolences
Tributes have since poured in from political leaders and fellow artists. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared his condolences on X, writing, “Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons… 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.”
Former Rajya Sabha MP Ripun Bora expressed his sadness on X, stating, “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.”
Chief Minister Sarma has spoken to Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Shilpak Ambule, regarding the return of Garg’s body. The Indian High Commission is in contact with Singaporean authorities to determine if an autopsy is required. “If an autopsy needs to be done, Zubeen’s mortal remains are likely to reach Assam by Saturday evening,” the Chief Minister said.
Various actors condole Zubeen Garg’s death
Actor Adil Hussain also shared his grief on X, writing, “Devastated and shocked by the news of Zubeen Garg’s sudden death in an accident in Singapore… His contribution to Assamese music and culture is extraordinary… He will live amongst us through his songs.”
Often referred to as the voice of Assam, Garg rose to national fame with his track “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster. He also had other Bollywood hits and recorded songs in multiple regional languages, including Bengali and Nepali.
