Life & Legacy
Zubeen Garg – The Immortal Voice of Assam and the Northeast
Born in Tura, Meghalaya, and raised in Jorhat, Zubeen hailed from a musically inclined Assamese Brahmin family. His father, Mohini Mohan Garg, was a lyricist and poet, while his mother, the late Ilyani Borthakur, inspired his musical instincts. Zubeen’s early exposure to classical and folk music molded him into one of India’s most versatile performers.
Musical Journey and Stardom
Zubeen’s career began in the early 1990s with Assamese albums like Anamika, Maya. His unique voice and deep emotional expression soon made him a household name in Assam. However, it was his Hindi track “Ya Ali” from the Bollywood movie Gangster (2006) that catapulted him to national fame, earning him multiple awards and recognition across India and abroad.
Over the years, Zubeen sang and composed more than 38,000 songs in Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, Tamil, and Telugu, leaving behind a musical legacy unmatched in Indian regional cinema. His ability to blend modern beats with Assamese folk rhythms redefined the soundscape of Assamese music.
Zubeen Garg's Contribution to Assamese Cinema
Apart from music, Zubeen Garg was an accomplished actor, director, and producer. His films like Kanchanjangha (2019), Mission China (2017), and Ratnakar (2019) became box office milestones. His final film, Roi Roi Binale (2025), broke multiple records within days of release, earning over ₹16.9 crore worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing Assamese movies of all time. The film’s success became a testament to his timeless popularity, even after his passing.
Awards and Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Zubeen won several national and regional awards for Best Playback Singer, Best Music Director, and Lifetime Contribution to Assamese Music. His songs such as Mayabini, Pakhi, Pakeeza, and Ya Ali continue to dominate playlists across generations.
Humanitarian Side and Activism
Beyond music, Zubeen was a philanthropist and cultural activist. He actively supported causes related to youth empowerment, environmental awareness, and Assamese cultural preservation. His influence inspired a new generation to take pride in regional identity while embracing modernity.
Untimely Demise and Eternal Legacy
On 19 September 2025, Zubeen Garg tragically passed away in Singapore after suffering a seizure while swimming at Lazarus Island, just hours before performing at the 4th North East India Festival. His untimely death shocked millions of fans, leaving behind an irreplaceable void in Indian music.
Yet, his voice lives on. From the rhythms of Assamese folk to Bollywood’s soulful hits, Zubeen Garg remains immortal through his melodies. His music continues to echo in every Assamese heart, making him truly — The Musical Legend From Assam.
Quick Info on Zubeen Garg
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zubeen Garg |
| Born | 18 November 1972, Tura, Meghalaya, India |
| Died | 19 September 2025, Singapore |
| Profession | Singer, Composer, Lyricist, Actor, Director |
| Languages Sung In | Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada |
| Notable Songs | Ya Ali, Mayabini, Pakhi, Tumi Mur, Pakeeza |
| Famous Films | Mission China, Kanchanjangha, Ratnakar, Roi Roi Binale |
| Awards | Best Playback Singer, Best Music Director, Lifetime Achievement |
| Spouse | Garima Saikia Garg |
| Legacy | Over 38,000 recorded songs; cultural icon of Assam |
FAQs on Zubeen Garg
1. Who was Zubeen Garg?
Zubeen Garg was a legendary Indian singer, composer, actor, and filmmaker from Assam, known for his soulful voice and over 38,000 recorded songs.
2. What was Zubeen Garg’s last film?
His last film was Roi Roi Binale (2025), which became one of the highest-grossing Assamese movies with ₹16.9 crore worldwide.
3. When did Zubeen Garg pass away?
He passed away on 19 September 2025 in Singapore after a tragic incident at Lazarus Island, where he was to perform at the North East India Festival.
4. Which song made Zubeen Garg famous nationally?
His Hindi song Ya Ali from the Bollywood film Gangster (2006) brought him nationwide fame.
5. How many songs did Zubeen Garg record in his lifetime?
He recorded more than 38,000 songs across multiple Indian languages including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, and Tamil.
6. What are some of Zubeen Garg’s popular Assamese songs?
Some of his most loved Assamese songs include Mayabini, Pakhi, Maya, Moina Moina, and Tumi Mur.
7. Which was Zubeen Garg’s first Assamese film as a director?
His directorial debut was Mission China (2017), which became a blockbuster hit in Assam.
8. Did Zubeen Garg receive any awards?
Yes, he received multiple awards for Best Singer and Best Music Director, along with lifetime achievement honors for his contribution to Indian music.
9. What is Zubeen Garg’s legacy in Assamese music?
He redefined Assamese music by fusing folk elements with modern arrangements, taking regional sound to national recognition.
10. Where can I listen to Zubeen Garg’s songs?
You can find his songs on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Gaana, and through Assamese music archives online.
