The funeral procession of Zubeen Garg, the beloved Assamese singer and cultural icon, has been officially recorded as the fourth-largest public gathering in the world by the Limca Book of Records. This recognition places his farewell alongside those of global figures like Michael Jackson, Pope Francis, and Queen Elizabeth II.
Zubeen Garg passed away unexpectedly in Singapore on September 19, at the age of 52, following a scuba diving accident. Despite immediate medical attention, he could not be saved. News of his death sent shockwaves across Assam and beyond.
On September 21, Guwahati's streets were overwhelmed as countless admirers gathered to pay their last respects to the "King of Humming". People from all over Assam and neighboring regions traveled to Guwahati to bid farewell to the singer. The sheer number of attendees brought the city to a standstill, with traffic congestion and a palpable sense of collective grief.
The funeral procession was marked by emotional tributes, including flowers, silent prayers, and soulful renditions of his songs. Fans queued for hours to offer their respects, lighting candles and humming his melodies, each gesture reflecting the profound loss felt across Assam and beyond. Many mourners described his passing as "the end of an era of Assamese music".
Zubeen Garg was more than just a playback singer; he was a cultural ambassador who played a pivotal role in giving Assamese music a national identity. His repertoire spanned various languages and genres, with the hit song "Ya Ali" from the Bollywood film "Gangster" (2006) establishing him as a household name throughout India.
The Limca Book of Records' recognition immortalizes Zubeen Garg's legacy as a singer, actor, and cultural icon of Assam, solidifying his status as a people's superstar whose influence transcended borders. For his devoted fans, this record is a testament to the unique bond he shared with millions of people whose lives he touched through his music, activism, and enduring spirit.