Zubeen Garg - The Musical Legend From Assam

Zubeen Garg (18 November 1972 – 19 September 2025) was a multifaceted Indian singer, music director, composer, lyricist, and actor who became a cultural icon of Assam and the entire Northeast. Born in Tura, Meghalaya, into an Assamese Brahmin family, Zubeen grew up with music deeply rooted in his upbringing and went on to become one of the most celebrated voices of modern Indian music.
Zubeen Garg isn't just a name; it's an emotion woven into the cultural fabric of Assam and beyond. This multifaceted artist, celebrated as one of the most influential figures in modern Assamese music, has captivated hearts for decades with his powerful vocals, versatile musical compositions, and charismatic screen presence.
Zubeen Garg is more than just a name - he is an emotion interwoven into the cultural fabric of Assam. He rose to national recognition with the Hindi song Ya Ali from the Bollywood movie Gangster (2006), which became a chartbuster across India.
However, his musical journey had begun long before that. Zubeen released hundreds of Assamese albums and lent his voice to thousands of songs across Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Nepali, and other languages, earning him a fan base that extended far beyond the Northeast.
Over his decades-long career, Zubeen received numerous prestigious awards, including honors for Best Playback Singer and Best Music Director. His compositions, often blending traditional Assamese folk music with modern arrangements, revitalized the Assamese music industry and introduced its rich heritage to a national and international audience.
Apart from music, Zubeen ventured into acting and filmmaking. His on-screen performances and directorial projects received both critical acclaim and commercial success, further establishing him as a true all-rounder in the Indian entertainment industry.
Zubeen was not only an artist but also a humanitarian. He actively engaged in social causes, cultural activism, and philanthropy, advocating for Assamese identity and youth empowerment. His efforts elevated Assamese culture onto the national stage.
Tragically, Zubeen Garg passed away on Friday, 19 September 2025, in Singapore after suffering a seizure while swimming at Lazarus Island. His wife, Garima Saikia Garg, confirmed the heartbreaking news.
Zubeen was in Singapore as the Cultural Brand Ambassador of the 4th North East India Festival, where he was scheduled to perform at the Suntec Convention Centre on 20 September 2025. He had arrived on 17 September for the prestigious event, but destiny took a cruel turn just before his performance.
Zubeen Garg’s voice, versatility, and contributions to music and cinema will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions. Whether it was a soulful ballad, a high-energy dance number, or a patriotic anthem, he sang every note with passion and purpose. His life may have ended, but his songs and legacy will continue to inspire generations across India and beyond.