The mortal remains of Zubeen Garg, the celebrated singer and cultural icon of Assam, arrived in Guwahati on Sunday, September 21, 2025, bringing an outpouring of grief and love from thousands of fans. Garg passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, in Singapore, following a scuba diving accident, just a day before he was scheduled to perform at the North East India Festival.

Garima Saikia Garg, Zubeen's wife, was present at the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport to receive her husband's body. As the casket was brought out of the aircraft, Garima, visibly distraught, offered floral tributes and placed a traditional Assamese 'gamosa' on the coffin. Overwhelmed with emotion, she broke down and hugged the casket. Senior state government officials were also present to receive the body.

The scene at the airport was heart-wrenching, with airport staff and passengers who had arrived on the same flight also breaking down in tears. Garima accompanied the ambulance carrying Zubeen's body as it made its way through the city. The casket was adorned with 'gamosas' and flowers, including marigolds and jasmine. Thousands of fans lined the streets, singing his songs and chanting "Jai Zubeen da," their voices filled with sorrow and admiration. Many held cut-outs of the singer and 'gamosas' bearing the words "Z G (Zubeen Garg) Forever".

Garima Saikia Garg, a well-known figure in her own right as a costume designer and film producer, made a heartfelt appeal to Zubeen's fans, urging them to maintain peace and unity during this difficult time. In a video message, she requested the withdrawal of all FIRs filed in connection with the incident and asked everyone to allow Zubeen's final rites to proceed peacefully and with dignity. She also expressed her gratitude for the support shown by the police and state administration.

She fondly spoke of Siddhartha Sarma, Zubeen's close aide and manager, emphasizing his unwavering support during challenging times, including Zubeen's health issues and the COVID-19 lockdown. She requested that everyone set aside any negative thoughts about him and allow him to be part of Zubeen's final journey, acknowledging his vital role in completing Zubeen's unfinished tasks.

The Assam government has announced a three-day state mourning period to honor the singer. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that Zubeen's mortal remains would be kept at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex (Sarusajai Stadium) for the public to pay their last respects. The Assam Cabinet is scheduled to meet to decide on the cremation venue. The Chief Minister along with his wife Riniki Sarma, visited Zubeen's residence in Guwahati to express their solidarity with the bereaved family.

Zubeen Garg, known as the "jewel of Assam," was more than just a singer; he was a cultural icon who united communities and generations through his music. His prolific career spanned over three decades, during which he recorded more than 38,000 songs in 40 languages and dialects. He achieved nationwide fame with his hit song "Ya Ali" from the Bollywood film "Gangster". His contribution to Assamese cinema as a singer, actor, and director has left an indelible mark on the industry.

The outpouring of love and grief following Zubeen Garg's death is a testament to his immense popularity and the deep connection he had with the people of Assam and beyond. His music and legacy will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.