Veteran music composer Anu Malik recently shared insights into his relationship with singer Zubeen Garg, revealing that the latter had been battling health issues. In a recent interview, Malik recalled conversations with Garg where the singer would mention experiencing sudden blackouts.

Anu Malik expressed his admiration for Zubeen Garg, describing him as a gentle soul. He recounted how Garg would confide in him about experiencing blackouts, painting a picture of a man facing health challenges behind the scenes.

Zubeen Garg, a prominent figure in the Bollywood music industry, passed away in Singapore on September 19, 2025, following a scuba diving accident. The 52-year-old singer, known for his hit song "Ya Ali" from the 2006 film Gangster, was in Singapore attending the North East India Festival when the tragic incident occurred. Reports indicate that Garg experienced breathing difficulties while scuba diving and was immediately given CPR before being rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where he was declared deceased.

The news of Zubeen Garg's death has sent shockwaves through the music industry and beyond. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, acknowledging Garg's rich contribution to music and his popularity across all walks of life. Many Bollywood celebrities and singers have also taken to social media to mourn the loss. Music composer Pritam, who collaborated with Garg on "Ya Ali," shared his devastation and offered condolences to Garg's family. Singer Papon described the loss as a "big void". Shaan shared a photo with Zubeen, reminiscing about his warm and pure-hearted nature. Armaan Malik conveyed his disbelief and prayed for Garg's soul to rest in peace.

Zubeen Garg's Bollywood breakthrough came with the timeless hit "Ya Ali" from the 2006 movie Gangster. He was a superstar in India's Northeast, with renditions popular among people across all walks of life. Just hours before the tragedy, Garg had shared a video on social media inviting fans to the festival, where he was a cultural brand ambassador and was scheduled to perform.

This is not the first tragedy to strike Garg's family. His younger sister, Jongki Borthakur, a singer and actress, died in a car accident in 2002, to whom Garg dedicated the album Xixhu. Garg is survived by his wife, fashion designer Garima Saika Garg.

The circumstances surrounding Zubeen Garg's death are still under investigation. A representative of the North East India Festival told NDTV that Garg experienced breathing difficulties while scuba diving. Multiple reports suggest that it was a scuba diving accident, and he was rescued from the sea but died in the hospital.