Assamese music legend Zubeen Garg tragically passed away on September 19, 2025, in a scuba diving accident in Singapore. The 52-year-old artist had arrived in the city to perform at the 4th North East India Festival, scheduled for September 20. According to reports, Garg was rescued from the water by Singapore police and rushed to the nearest hospital, where he was admitted to the ICU. Despite all medical efforts, he could not be saved.
A video circulating on social media shows Garg joyfully jumping into the sea wearing a life jacket. However, reports suggest that he later removed the jacket and jumped back in, which ultimately led to the tragic accident. Just a day earlier, another video captured him smiling and singing Tears in Heaven at a local restaurant, enjoying the evening with fellow performers—making the news of his sudden death even more heartbreaking.
His passing has left the people of Assam and the Indian music community in deep shock. Garg’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, and other family members were seen grieving after the devastating news broke.
Last video of Zubeen. I too am a man broken with grief, just like you. He jumped with a life jacket on. After 1.26 seconds he returned to yacht, took off his life jacket & jumped again. This time, he came back lifeless.#zubeen#Zubeen_Garg #ZubeenGargDeath #zubeengargaccident pic.twitter.com/yttAESC8ey
— Nandan Pratim Sharma Bordoloi (@NANDANPRATIM) September 19, 2025
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the incident and stated, “Zubeen died while swimming without a life jacket.” He also mentioned that Singapore authorities would question those who were with the singer at the time. An autopsy is scheduled for Saturday to determine the exact cause of death.
Zubeen Garg was a beloved figure in Indian music, known for his immense contributions as a singer, composer, and actor. His death leaves an irreplaceable void in Assam’s cultural landscape.
As a mark of respect, the organisers of the North East India Festival announced the cancellation of the event. In a heartfelt statement, they said, “We are deeply saddened by his loss,” and extended condolences to his family and fans across the world.