SINGAPORE: The music world is in mourning following the tragic death of iconic Indian singer and composer Zubeen Garg, who passed away in Singapore on Friday at the age of 52.
The Assamese cultural icon, known for his prolific career and rich contributions to Indian music, had been in Singapore to perform at the 4th Northeast India Festival.
A representative from the festival told NDTV that Garg experienced breathing difficulties while scuba diving. Despite immediate CPR efforts, he was rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead in the intensive care unit at 5pm.
According to the Times of India, the cause of death has been officially confirmed as ‘drowning’, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed in a press conference on Sunday.
News of his death sent shockwaves across India and amongst his global fanbase.
Just days before his passing, Zubeen had posted a video on Instagram inviting fans to his upcoming performance, which was scheduled for Saturday at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Fans took to social media to express their profound grief.
One fan shared a deeply personal memory, writing, “I will never forget the nights I have spent listening to his songs. When I was little, my mother and I, along with my sister, used to listen to his songs while we went to sleep. Rest in peace legend.”
Another simply said, “We lost a gem.”
Tributes also poured in from political leaders. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to express his shock, saying, “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.”
Similarly, India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, who represents Assam in the Indian parliament, mourned the loss, describing it as “an irreparable loss for Assam, our nation, and the entire world of music.”
He added, “Zubeen Garg was the heartbeat of a generation and his voice was a powerful symbol of pride for millions. In this moment of overwhelming sorrow, I stand in solidarity with the people of Assam.”
Zubeen Garg’s death marks the end of an era for millions of fans who adored his powerful and versatile voice. His legacy, however, will undoubtedly live on through his timeless music.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
