Thousands attended his funeral at Kamarkuchi graveyard, while lakhs of fans paid respects at Sarusajai Stadium over three days.
BY PC Bureau
September 23, 2025 — Assam’s cultural landscape bid a tearful farewell to Zubeen Garg, the 52-year-old singer, composer, and actor, who tragically drowned in Singapore on September 19, 2025. Garg, whose soulful voice and dynamic performances defined generations of Assamese music, was cremated with full state honors at Kamarkuchi graveyard in Guwahati. Thousands gathered to pay their respects, while lakhs of fans had visited Sarusajai Stadium over three days to honor the beloved artist.
The news of Garg’s death sent shockwaves across Assam and the Indian diaspora. He was reportedly vacationing in Singapore when the accident occurred. A second post-mortem conducted in Guwahati confirmed drowning as the cause of death, dispelling earlier speculations. Authorities in Singapore and India coordinated closely to repatriate Garg’s remains, which arrived in Guwahati late on September 20.
A Farewell Befitting a Legend
The Assam government declared a state mourning period, reflecting the profound void left by Garg’s passing. His body lay at Sarusajai Stadium for three days, where an estimated 2.5 lakh people—fans, fellow artists, and dignitaries—paid homage. The stadium, typically a venue for sports and celebrations, was transformed into a sea of mourning. Fans held candlelight vigils and sang iconic songs like Ya Ali, Pake Pake, and Dil Tu Hi Bataa, many clutching posters and memorabilia.
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On September 23, the funeral procession wound through Guwahati’s streets, with thousands lining the route to Kamarkuchi graveyard. Traditional Assamese instruments played mournful tunes, and chants of “Zubeen Amar Rahe” (Zubeen lives forever) filled the air. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma personally oversaw funeral arrangements, ensuring that the cremation followed Vedic rites and state honors.
Tributes from Across the Nation
Leaders and luminaries expressed grief nationwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Garg as “a cultural titan whose voice captured the spirit of Assam and united hearts across India,” adding that “his songs were not just melodies but anthems of identity and pride for the Northeast.” Chief Minister Sarma called Garg “Assam’s heartbeat,” while other leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, offered condolences highlighting his contributions to Indian music and cinema.
Bollywood personalities, including Aamir Khan and Priyanka Chopra, recalled his warmth and talent from collaborations in films like Gangster and Dum Maaro Dum. Assamese artists, from Papon to Angaraag Mahanta, credited Garg with inspiring a generation to embrace their roots while experimenting with contemporary sounds.
A Legacy That Shaped Northeast Culture
Born on November 18, 1972, in Jorhat, Assam, Zubeen Garg rose from humble beginnings to become a household name. His versatile voice blended Assamese folk, Bollywood pop, and Bihu rhythms, earning fans across generations. With over 20,000 songs in Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil, his hits like Ya Ali and Dil Tu Hi Bataa became national sensations, while Pake Pake and O Jaaneman resonated as Assamese anthems.
Beyond music, Garg was a cultural ambassador, addressing social issues like drug abuse and communal harmony. His annual free concerts drew lakhs, celebrating unity and Assamese pride. His 2017 film Mission China, which he directed and starred in, showcased the Northeast’s talent and beauty. His philanthropy, including flood relief and education initiatives, further cemented his status as a people’s hero.
#ZubeenGarg once said, “I will leave everything for my people, and carry only the pyre.” 🔥
⁰Today, as the public waits with trembling hearts for his body to arrive, it feels as if time itself has paused to witness the promise fulfilled.
⁰A legend’s final journey — where love… pic.twitter.com/PoBULg75Lo— Sanjib Hazarika (@bjpsaanjib) September 23, 2025
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Assam mourned profoundly: schools and businesses closed in Guwahati, and social media was flooded with tributes under hashtags like #ZubeenGargForever and #AssamMourns. Fans shared videos of his performances, recalling his infectious energy. “He wasn’t just a singer; he was our voice, our pride,” said Priya Das, a 28-year-old fan who traveled from Dibrugarh for the funeral.
Cultural organizations announced plans to honor his legacy. The Assam government is considering a Zubeen Garg Cultural Foundation to support young artists, while fans have proposed a statue in Jorhat. Music academies are offering workshops in his name, ensuring that his influence endures.
A Voice That Will Echo Forever
As flames rose at Kamarkuchi, they marked not just the end of a life but the immortalization of a legacy. Zubeen Garg’s music, activism, and love for his people will continue to inspire, resonating throughout Assam and beyond. “Zubeen da, tumar awaaz amak jiwont rakhibo” (Zubeen da, your voice will keep us alive), read a banner held by grieving fans. For Assam and India, that voice remains eternal.
