'Terrible tragedy': PM, leaders and singers mourn Zubeen Garg's sudden demise

Popular singer from Assam and youth heartthrob Zubeen Garg died while scuba diving in Singapore on Friday, organisers of a festival in the Southeast Asian country said.

He was 52, and is survived by his wife. Garg sustained injuries during scuba diving, and was rushed to a hospital, where he died in the intensive care unit while undergoing treatment.

Prime Minister took to X and posted, 'Shocked by the sudden demise of popular singer Zubeen Garg. He will be remembered for his rich contribution to music. His renditions were very popular among people across all walks of life. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi posted on X, “'The passing of Zubeen Garg is a terrible tragedy. His voice defined a generation, and his talent was truly unmatched. He overcame personal tragedies to reshape the landscape of Assamese music. His perseverance and courage have left an enduring mark. He will live on in our hearts and minds forever.”

Also read: Zubeen Garg, 'Ya Ali' singer from film Gangster, dies in scuba diving accident in Singapore

"It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Zubeen Garg's passing. While scuba diving, he experienced breathing difficulties and was immediately given CPR before being rushed to Singapore General Hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he was declared dead in the ICU around 2.30 pm IST," a statement issued by organisers of the North East Festival said.

Reacting to the development, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, "It is very painful news and an immense loss to the state and the nation," Sarma. In an X post, he said, "Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. I am at a loss for words to describe what Zubeen meant for the state. He has gone too early; this was not the age to go." "Zubeen's voice had an unmatched ability to energise people and his music spoke directly to our minds and souls. He has left a void that will never be filled. Our future generations will remember him as a stalwart of Assam's culture, and his works will inspire many more talented artists in the days and years to come," he added.

Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said Garg's death was an irreparable loss for the state, the nation and the world of music.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said, "We have lost a magical voice and a versatile personality... His evergreen songs will inspire talented artists for generations to come. I pray for his departed soul."

Assam Congress president and the party's deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, mourned Garg's death and hailed him as a "pride of every Assamese". "I am left speechless by the news of the death of Zubeen Garg, the pride of every Assamese, in an accident in Singapore. I cannot find words to express the loss we are feeling," Gogoi, the Lok Sabha MP of Jorhat from where the singer hailed, said in a statement.

State minister Ashok Singhal said with Garg's death, Assam lost not just a voice but a heartbeat.

Senior Congress leader Ripun Bora said Garg's voice and indomitable spirit inspired generations across Assam and beyond. "His voice, music, and indomitable spirit inspired generations across Assam and beyond. My heartfelt condolences to his family, fans, and loved ones. Rest in peace, Legend," he said in a post on X.

Actor Adil Hussain, musicians Papon, Vishal Mishra, Armaan Malik and Pritam also expressed shock over Zubeen’s sudden death.

North East United FC, in a statement, said, "Assam has lost its heartthrob... We mourn the passing of the legendary singer Zubeen Garg. His music will forever echo in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and countless admirers in this difficult time..."

Actor Adil Hussain, who hails from Assam, said Garg's contribution to the Assamese music and culture was extraordinary.