West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the untimely passing of renowned Indian singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg, who died in a tragic scuba diving accident in Singapore on Friday. The 52-year-old artist, celebrated for his hit song "Ya Ali" from the film ‘Gangster’ and his extensive contributions to Assamese and Bollywood music, was in Singapore to attend the North East India Festival when the incident occurred. Doctors declared him dead at 2:40 p.m. local time after he lost consciousness underwater.
In a poignant post on X, Banerjee referred to Garg as her "dear brother" and highlighted his enduring legacy. "My dear brother Zubeen - Rest in Rhythm! We will miss you, your mellifluous voice and you indomitable spirit. Music teaches us to fight, to heal and to have faith. Your songs are your legacy and shall remain immortal forever," she wrote. The message quickly garnered widespread attention, reflecting Garg's broad appeal across regions.
Garg, often called the "Heart of Assam," revolutionised the Northeast's music scene with over 15,000 songs in multiple languages, blending folk traditions with contemporary styles. His work extended beyond music into acting, directing, and philanthropy, making him a symbol of unity for India's diverse cultures. Tributes poured in from fans and celebrities alike, with his final social media post inviting fans to the festival going viral amid the shock. Born in Meghalaya’s Tura in the year 1972 as Zubeen Borthakur, Garg adopted his stage surname in the 1990s, drawing from his gotra to honour his roots. Rising from the vibrant cultural tapestry of Assam, he became a household name through thousands of tracks in Assamese, Hindi, and beyond - often called the ‘Rockstar’ from Northeast.
The singer's body is expected to be flown back to Assam for last rites, as arrangements are underway amid an outpouring of condolences from across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his shock at Garg's passing, noting the artist's lasting impact on music and how his songs resonated with people from various backgrounds. He extended sympathies to the family and fans.Union Home Minister Amit Shah also mourned the loss, describing Garg's voice as one that united the country through timeless melodies.
