Eminent Singer Zubeen Garg Dies While Scuba Diving in Singapore

; PM Modi Condoles His Demise; ‘Terrible Tragedy’, Says Rahul 

PTI, GUWAHATI, SEPT 19, 2025 : 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. Garg was 52 and is survived by his wife. The singer sustained injuries during scuba diving and was rushed to a hospital, where he died in the intensive care unit while undergoing treatment. He had gone to Singapore to participate in the three-day North East Festival, which was scheduled to begin on Friday.

"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 he received the news from Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita. "It is very painful news and an immense loss to the state and the nation," Sarma said on the sidelines of a programme. 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.

Sarma said that beyond Garg's music, his connection with people and passion for helping them will always be remembered. "I will greatly cherish all my interactions with him. That magical voice has forever gone silent. Tragic beyond words!" he added.

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

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi too mourned the death of the singer, describing it as a "terrible tragedy." "The passing of Zubeen Garg is a terrible tragedy. His voice defined a generation, and his talent was truly unmatched," Rahul said in a post on 'X'. He overcame personal tragedies to reshape the landscape of Assamese music, the Congress MP said. "His perseverance and courage have left an enduring mark. He will live on in our hearts and minds forever," he said.

Describing Zubeen Garg as her "brother", West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday mourned the death of the popular singer. Mamata paid her homage to the 52-year-old singer who lost his life in an accident in Singapore. "My dear brother Zubeen – Rest in Rhythm! We will miss you, your mellifluous voice and your indomitable spirit. Music teaches us to fight, to heal, and to have faith. Your songs are your legacy and shall remain immortal forever," she posted on her X handle.