Assamese Icon Zubeen Garg Passes Away at 52
Guwahati/Singapore, September 19:
Assam mourns the untimely demise of its beloved cultural icon, Zubeen Garg, who passed away at the age of 52 in Singapore following a tragic accident. He died following a scuba diving accident in Singapore today (Septmber 19).
A singer, composer, actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist, Garg was not just a musician but a phenomenon who reshaped the cultural identity of the Northeast and bridged regional artistry with the mainstream Indian music industry.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Born on 18 November 1972 in Tura, Meghalaya, and raised in Jorhat, Assam, Zubeen Garg inherited music from his family—his mother was a classical singer, and his father was an artist and lyricist. Named after renowned composer Zubin Mehta, Garg’s musical journey began early, and by the mid-1990s he had become a household name in Assam with hits like “Anamika” and “Maya.”
Rise to National Fame
Garg shot to national prominence with the chartbuster “Ya Ali” from the Bollywood film Gangster (2006). The song not only became a massive hit across India but also introduced Assamese talent to a pan-Indian audience. Over the years, he lent his voice to more than 20 Indian languages, including Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Tamil, and Nepali, recording over 40,000 songs.
Contributions to Assamese Music and Cinema
Back home, Garg was instrumental in modernising Assamese music. His albums like Chandini Raat, Pakhi, and Maya remain evergreen in Assamese households. He also played a pioneering role in reviving Assamese cinema, producing and acting in films such as Mission China (2017), which set new benchmarks for box office success in the state.
Multifaceted Artist
Beyond singing, Garg wore many hats—composer, music director, scriptwriter, actor, and filmmaker. His artistic versatility won him both popular acclaim and critical recognition. He was also known for blending traditional Assamese folk elements with modern rhythms, making his music relatable to younger generations.
Awards and Recognition
Zubeen Garg’s contributions earned him several prestigious awards, including the National Film Award for Best Music Direction (2007) for the film Echoes of Silence. He also bagged multiple Filmfare Awards (East) and Prag Cine Awards. In Assam, he was often referred to as the “Son of the Soil,” symbolising cultural pride and regional unity.
Social Work and Activism
Known for his outspoken nature, Garg was actively involved in social causes, from supporting flood relief in Assam to championing regional identity and language preservation. His philanthropic efforts often went beyond the stage, reinforcing his role as a socially conscious public figure.
Enduring Legacy
For millions in Assam and beyond, Zubeen Garg was more than a singer—he was an emotion. His passing marks the end of an era in Assamese cultural history, leaving behind a treasure trove of music, cinema, and memories that will inspire generations to come.
