The recent death of popular Indian musician Zubeen Garg in Singapore has been a subject of much discussion and, initially, some misinformation. Conflicting reports emerged following the 52-year-old's death on September 19, 2025, particularly regarding the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Clarifying the Circumstances

Initial reports suggested that Garg died following a medical emergency during a scuba diving outing. However, official reports and eyewitness accounts have since clarified that Zubeen Garg passed away after swimming in the waters off St John's Island in Singapore. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has provided the High Commission of India with the autopsy report and its preliminary findings, confirming that Garg's death was due to drowning. The SPF has also ruled out foul play.

The Events of September 19th

Zubeen Garg was in Singapore to celebrate the 60th anniversary of India-Singapore diplomatic relations and to participate in the North East India Festival. On September 19, he was part of a group of more than a dozen people on a yacht. A video circulating on social media showed Garg jumping into the water wearing a life vest. According to the person who posted the video, Garg later removed the life vest and re-entered the water. He was subsequently pulled unconscious from the water and rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where he was declared dead. Garg's death certificate, issued by a Singapore hospital, lists the cause of death as drowning.

Investigation and Arrests

Following Garg's death, complaints were filed in Assam against Shyamkanu Mahanta, the organizer of the North East India Festival, and Siddharth Sharma, Garg's manager, alleging negligence and mismanagement. These complaints also referenced Garg's known health issues; he had sustained a head injury in 2022 after a seizure, and his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, stated that he was on medication for this condition and had experienced a seizure in August of the previous year. She also questioned why Sharma, who knew about Garg's medical history, allowed him to swim and why no assistance was provided when he appeared tired in the water.

The Assam CID registered a case against Mahanta, Sharma, and others, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed. Both Mahanta and Sharma were arrested and taken to Guwahati, where they were remanded to 14-day police custody.

Reactions and Aftermath

Zubeen Garg's death has evoked strong emotions in Assam, where he was not only a beloved singer but also an icon of Assamese identity. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stated that justice must be delivered in Garg's case.

Associates of Garg have expressed their sorrow and shared memories of the singer. Composer Anu Malik, who worked with Garg on several projects, remembered him as a "gentle, loving soul".

The Singapore Police Force has advised the public not to share videos or images related to Garg's death.