Swimming accident claims life of Zubeen Garg, confirm authorities in Assam, as stated by the State Chief Minister.
Tragedy Strikes at North East India Festival: Singer Zubeen Garg Passes Away
In a shocking turn of events, acclaimed Assamese singer Zubeen Garg passed away on Friday, 18th September, 2025, following a scuba diving accident in Singapore. The news of his demise was confirmed by Assam Cabinet minister Ashok Singhal earlier in the day.
Garg was scheduled to perform at the North East India Festival, a significant cultural event set to take place on the 20th of September. However, the tragic incident occurred during a scuba diving activity on a cruise with his friends. Singaporean authorities are currently questioning those who were accompanying him.
The organisers of the North East India Festival were unaware of Garg's yacht visit before the accident. They were engaged in a business meeting with senior Singaporean industrialists and policymakers at the time of the incident.
The post-mortem examination of Garg is scheduled for Saturday. The search results do not provide information about the organiser of the Northeast India Festival where Garg was supposed to perform in 2025.
The organisers of the North East India Festival have expressed their deepest condolences over Garg's death and have decided to cancel the event as a mark of respect.
Zubeen Garg, known for his popular song 'Ya Ali' from the 2006 film Gangster, had arrived in Singapore just the day before his scheduled performance. His death occurred at the Singapore General Hospital around 2:30 PM (IST).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over Garg's demise and praised his contributions to the music industry. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that Garg died while swimming without a life jacket.
The local Assamese community reportedly took Garg on a yacht visit, which was not known to the festival organisers. The organisers of the North East India Festival are working closely with the High Commission to complete necessary procedures.
Garg's death has left a void in the music industry and the hearts of his fans. His music and performances will be remembered for years to come.
