Popular Assamese singer and youth icon Zubeen Garg died on Friday while scuba diving in Singapore, according to organisers of a cultural festival in the Southeast Asian country. He was 52 and is survived by his wife.Officials said Garg sustained injuries during a scuba diving session and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he passed away in the intensive care unit while undergoing treatment.The celebrated artist had travelled to Singapore to participate in the three-day North East Festival, which was set to begin the same day. The event’s organisers expressed shock over the sudden tragedy, calling it an irreparable loss for the cultural community.Garg, known for his soulful voice and versatility, was one of Assam’s most loved performers. Over the years, he recorded hundreds of songs across Assamese, Hindi, Bengali and other languages, earning acclaim for his contribution to Indian music. His tracks such as Ya Ali and Mission China cemented his place as a cultural ambassador for the North East.Reacting to the news, Assam’s Health and Family Welfare and Irrigation Minister Ashok Singhal said in a post on X (formerly Twitter):“Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of our beloved Zubeen Garg. Assam has lost not just a voice, but a heartbeat. Zubeen da was more than a singer; he was the pride of Assam and the nation. His passing leaves behind a void that can never be filled.”Tributes have been pouring in from fans and fellow artists across the country, remembering Garg’s contribution to music and culture. His funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon by his family.
Singer Zubeen Garg passes away in Singapore at 52
