Guwahati 23rd Sept 2025 (NETV): Few artists have left as deep an imprint on the cultural fabric of Assam and the Northeast as Zubeen Garg. Known as the “Heartthrob of Assam,” he was not just a singer but a phenomenon who shaped generations with his soulful voice, bold personality, and fearless artistry.
Born on 18 November 1972 in Tura, Meghalaya, and raised in Assam, Zubeen’s journey from a small-town boy to a nationally acclaimed singer, music composer, and actor remains an inspiration. His untimely death on 19 September 2025 in Singapore at the age of 52 has left a void that cannot be filled.
Early Life & Musical Journey
Zubeen inherited music from his parents — his mother, the classical singer Ila Garg, and his father, Mohini Mohan Borthakur, who wrote under the pen name “Kapil Thakur.” Named after the great composer Zubin Mehta, he was destined for music from the very beginning.
He debuted with the Assamese album “Anamika” in 1992, which became a cult hit and opened the doors to an illustrious career. Soon, Zubeen established himself as the voice of contemporary Assamese youth.
A Multifaceted Icon
Over three decades, Zubeen Garg recorded more than 40,000 songs in multiple languages — Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Nepali. His Bollywood breakthrough came with the chartbuster “Ya Ali” from Gangster (2006), which earned him nationwide recognition.
Apart from singing, he was also a composer, lyricist, actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist. His contribution to Assamese cinema and culture elevated the regional industry to national attention.
Zubeen Garg: More Than Just Music
For millions, Zubeen was not only a singer but also a movement. He was outspoken, fearless in voicing opinions, and deeply connected to Assam’s social and political landscape. His concerts were more than performances — they were celebrations of identity and belonging.
He stood by young talents, inspired countless aspiring musicians, and remained a people’s artist, performing everywhere from massive stadiums to rural stages during Bihu celebrations.
The Final Chapter
Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore under tragic circumstances, with drowning listed as the official cause of death. His last rites were performed with full state honours at Kamarkuchi village near Guwahati, as lakhs of fans, celebrities, and well-wishers bid him a tearful farewell.
Legacy That Lives Forever
Though Zubeen Garg is no more, his voice will continue to resonate through his timeless songs like Ya Ali, Anamika, Pakhi, Mayabini, and countless Assamese classics. He will forever remain the eternal voice of Assam, the artist who gave words to the region’s dreams, heartbreaks, and celebrations.
