By Shiwani
Copyright india
Assamese music legend Zubeen Garg tragically passed away on September 19 2025 after an accident in Singapore. The 52-year-old singer was rescued from the sea by local authorities and rushed to a nearby hospital where he was admitted to the ICU. Despite doctors’ best efforts he could not be saved. Garg was in the island nation to perform at the North East India Festival scheduled for September 20.
A video that surfaced on social media shows Zubeen initially jumping into the sea with a life jacket smiling and enjoying the moment. Reports suggest that after returning to the boat he removed the jacket and jumped again which led to the tragedy. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed this stating “Zubeen died while swimming without a life jacket.” He also added that Singapore authorities will question those who had accompanied him.
Watch video
Just a day before his passing another video captured Zubeen singing “Tears in Heaven” at a restaurant in Singapore. The clip now viral online shows him smiling warmly holding the mic and captivating the audience with his soulful voice. This poignant moment has now become a memory that fans are holding on to in grief.
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Family and fans in shock
News of the singer’s death left his family and fans devastated. His wife Garima Saikia Garg along with other relatives broke down in tears after receiving the heartbreaking news. Social media has since been flooded with tributes from fans artists and public figures who hailed him as one of India’s finest voices.
What about the festival?
The organisers of the North East India Festival issued a statement confirming the cancellation of the event as a mark of respect. They expressed deep grief over losing a performer who was not just a singer but also a cultural icon of the region. An autopsy is scheduled to be conducted on Saturday to ascertain further details.
Highlights:
Zubeen Garg died in Singapore at 52 after a tragic sea accident.
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed he was not wearing a life jacket.
The North East India Festival cancelled its events following the tragedy.
