GUWAHATI: Assam observed the first death anniversary of legendary Assamese singer, composer and actor Zubeen Garg on Saturday, with thousands of fans, family members and artistes gathering across the state to pay tribute a year after his sudden death in Singapore.
Garg, one of Assam’s most influential cultural figures, died on September 19, 2025, at the age of 52 after an incident while swimming during a private trip to Singapore. In a 33-year career, he recorded more than 40,000 songs across 40 languages and dialects, with his 2006 song “Ya Ali” bringing him wide recognition beyond Assam.
The commemorations centred on Zubeen Kshetra in Sonapur, near Guwahati, where he was cremated with full state honours. A three-day observance, “Zubeen Divas,” backed by the Assam government’s Cultural Affairs Department, began on September 17 with interfaith prayers and continued with cultural programmes, Bhagawat recitation and Bhaona performances.
Garg’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, said the family continues to await answers on the circumstances of his death, with the murder trial against seven accused ongoing in Assam even as Singapore authorities concluded the death was accidental. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also paid tribute at a blood donation camp organised by his party.