The recent and sudden demise of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg has prompted widespread mourning and reflection, significantly impacting daily life in Assam. Following the news of his death on September 19, 2025, several businesses, including popular online food delivery platforms Swiggy and Zomato, temporarily paused their operations as a mark of respect.
Zubeen Garg, 52, was a highly influential figure in Assam, renowned for his contributions to music, film, and culture. Garg died in Singapore, where he was scheduled to perform at the North East India Festival. Initial reports suggested a scuba diving accident as the cause of death, but his wife, Garima Saikia, clarified that he suffered a seizure while swimming.
The news of Garg's death triggered an outpouring of grief across Assam and the rest of India. The Assam government declared three days of state mourning from September 20-22, during which official entertainment, public celebrations, and ceremonial events were suspended. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his condolences, calling Garg "more than just a singer" and acknowledging his unique ability to unite and inspire people through his music.
In the wake of this widespread grief, companies like Swiggy and Zomato decided to halt their services in Assam. This decision reflects the deep respect and admiration that people held for Zubeen Garg, with businesses choosing to prioritize mourning over normal operations. The temporary pause in services by these platforms was a practical way to acknowledge the loss and allow employees and customers to participate in mourning. Blinkit also suspended operations.
The closure of these services, even temporarily, highlights the significant cultural impact a local figure can have on a region. Zubeen Garg's influence extended beyond music, shaping the identity and spirit of Assam. His death was felt deeply by people from all walks of life, prompting businesses to respond in a way that reflected the collective sentiment of the community.
The decision by Swiggy and Zomato to pause operations demonstrates a recognition of the importance of cultural values and community sentiment in business practices. It underscores the idea that businesses are not just economic entities but also integral parts of the social fabric, with a responsibility to acknowledge and respect the cultural norms and emotions of the communities they serve.
