The Assamese music world and Bollywood have been struck by tragedy with the sudden passing of Zubeen Garg, the celebrated singer and cultural icon, at the age of 52. News of his demise following a scuba diving accident in Singapore has sent shockwaves across the nation, particularly in Assam, where he was revered as the "voice of Assam".

Zubeen was in Singapore to attend and perform at the North East Festival, a three-day event scheduled to begin on Friday, September 20, 2025. According to reports, the accident occurred while he was scuba diving. He reportedly experienced breathing difficulties during the dive and was immediately rescued by Singaporean police. CPR was administered at the scene before he was rushed to Singapore General Hospital. Despite intensive medical care, doctors were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead in the intensive care unit around 2:30 pm IST.

The organizers of the North East Festival issued a statement expressing their deep sadness. "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.

Zubeen Garg was not only a popular singer in Assam but also a significant figure in the Assamese cultural landscape. His influence extended to Bollywood, where he gained national fame with his hit song "Ya Ali" from the movie "Gangster". He also sang popular Bollywood songs such as "Dil Tu Hi Bataa" from "Krrish 3" and "Jaane Kya Chahe Man" from "Pyaar Ke Side Effects". Beyond Hindi, Zubeen lent his voice to songs in Assamese, Bengali, Nepali, and other regional languages, amassing a diverse and devoted fan base.

News of Zubeen's untimely death has triggered an outpouring of grief and condolences from fans, colleagues, and prominent figures across Assam, the Northeast, and India. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his sorrow on X, stating, "Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. I am at a loss of words to describe what Zubeen meant for Assam. He has gone too early; this was not an age to go".

Actor Adil Hussain, who hails from Assam, acknowledged Zubeen's immense contribution to Assamese music and culture. "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," he added.

The ISL team North East United FC also released a statement mourning the singer's death. "Assam has lost its heartthrob... We mourn the passing of the legendary singer Zubeen Garg. His music will forever echo in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and countless admirers in this difficult time...".

Zubeen Garg's passing leaves a void in the Assamese music industry and the hearts of his countless fans. His legacy as a singer, composer, and cultural icon will continue to inspire generations to come.