Introduction
Zubeen Garg transformed regional tunes into national anthems, and by the time of his untimely death, he inspired millions beyond Assam. His voice broke boundaries, and his legacy continues to resonate.
Quick Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zubeen Borthakur (later known as Zubeen Garg) |
| Date of Birth | 18 November 1972 |
| Place of Birth | Tura, Meghalaya, India |
| Date of Death | 19 September 2025 |
| Place of Death | Singapore |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, composer, actor, film director, music director, producer, lyricist, multi-instrumentalist, poet |
| Years Active | 1992-2025 |
Family Background
| Relation | Name/Role |
|---|---|
| Father | Mohini Mohon Borthakur (aka Kapil Thakur) – Magistrate, lyricist, poet |
| Mother | Ily Borthakur – Singer |
| Siblings | Jongki Borthakur (sister – actress/singer, deceased 2002), Dr. Palme Borthakur (sister) |
Zubeen belonged to a family deeply rooted in literature and arts. His father served as a magistrate and wrote poetry under a pen-name, while his mother’s singing shaped his early exposure to music. His sister Jongki shared his artistic path before her tragic death in 2002, and his other sister, Palme, continues to be part of his surviving family. Thus, creativity ran in his blood, and he nurtured it from childhood.
Extended Family
Zubeen took his last name “Garg” from his gotra rather than paternal surname, reflecting his appreciation for lineage and identity. Moreover, his naming after famed conductor Zubin Mehta showed his family’s respect for classical and global musical influences. His extended family’s literary background—his father’s poetry and his mother’s music—helped him bridge folk, classical, and popular forms in his own work.
Education
| Level | Institution | Details |
|---|---|---|
| School (Matriculation) | Tamulpur Higher Secondary School | Completed matriculation |
| Higher Secondary | Karimganj College | Studied, then moved ahead |
| Undergraduate | B. Borooah College | Enrolled for B.Sc., dropped out to pursue music full-time |
Although Zubeen began formal studies, he soon realized that music demanded his full attention. Therefore, after completing matriculation and some college, he left his undergraduate studies to pursue a music career. That decision paved the way for his prolific output, as he then focused entirely on training, performance, and composition.
Career + Career Timeline
🎵 Music Career
| Year / Period | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1992 | Released debut Assamese album Anamika, starting his professional music journey |
| Late 1990s | Released multiple Assamese albums and became a leading figure in the state’s music scene |
| 2006 | Rose to national fame with Bollywood hit “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster |
| 2009 | Won National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Dilruba” (Morning Walk) |
| 2010s | Recorded songs in Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Nepali industries |
| 2020–2024 | Performed large-scale live concerts across India and the North-East; released several Assamese singles |
| 2024 | Received honorary Doctor of Literature degree from University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya |
| 2025 | Continued recording and performing until his death, with several planned albums and collaborations |
Zubeen Garg began his music career in 1992 by releasing his debut Assamese album Anamika, which established him as a rising artist. He quickly dominated the Assamese music scene with back-to-back hit albums through the late 1990s. Later, he entered Bollywood and shot to nationwide fame in 2006 with the song “Ya Ali” from Gangster. He further cemented his reputation by winning the National Film Award in 2009 for “Dilruba.” Over the years, he recorded in multiple Indian languages, delivered hit singles, and performed in countless concerts. By 2024, he earned an honorary doctorate, and he remained actively involved in composing and performing until 2025, maintaining an influential music legacy spanning over three decades.
🎬 Film & Direction Career
| Year / Period | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2002 | Debuted as an actor in Assamese cinema with Tumi Mur Mathu Mur |
| 2004 | Directed and composed for Assamese film Tumi Mur Mathu Mur |
| 2007–2015 | Acted in and composed music for several Assamese films, expanding his portfolio |
| 2017 | Directed and produced the Assamese film Mission China (a commercial success) |
| 2019 | Produced and composed music for Assamese film Kanchenjungha |
| 2020–2025 | Continued to act, compose, and develop multiple regional film projects until his death |
Alongside music, Zubeen Garg built a prolific film career as an actor, director, composer, and producer. He made his acting debut in 2002 and directed his first film, Tumi Mur Mathu Mur, in 2004, showcasing his versatility. Between 2007 and 2015, he balanced acting roles while composing soundtracks for Assamese films. He achieved notable success in 2017 with his directorial venture Mission China, which became one of the biggest Assamese box office hits. Later, he produced and composed for Kanchenjungha in 2019. From 2020 to 2025, he stayed involved in developing multiple film projects, cementing his status as one of Assam’s most multi-talented entertainment figures.
🎬 Unfinished & Upcoming Projects
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| Project Name | Type | Status at Time of Death |
|---|---|---|
| Untitled Assamese Album | Music Album | Recording completed; unreleased |
| Rai Rai Binale | Assamese Feature Film | Releasing on 31st October, 2025 |
| Multiple Live Concerts | Music Tours | Scheduled for late 2025 |
| Bollywood Collaboration | Hindi Film Music | Under negotiation; songs recorded |
Until his death in September 2025, Zubeen Garg had several major projects lined up. He had finished recording songs for an upcoming Assamese album, and he had started planning Mission China 2 as a follow-up to his blockbuster 2017 film. He was also scheduled to perform multiple live concert tours across India in late 2025. In addition, he had entered talks for composing for a Bollywood project, with a few tracks already recorded. His sudden passing left these highly anticipated works incomplete, marking a significant loss to the music and film industries.
Death Details
Date, Place, and Cause of Death
Zubeen Garg passed away on 19 September 2025 in Singapore after a tragic scuba-diving accident. While diving, he experienced breathing difficulties underwater. The rescue team quickly pulled him out, performed CPR, and rushed him to Singapore General Hospital. Despite all efforts, doctors declared him dead. Multiple media outlets confirmed that the incident occurred around 2:30 pm IST.
Official Confirmation
The Government of Assam and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma officially confirmed his death and expressed deep grief. Several political leaders, film industry personalities, and fans across India paid heartfelt tributes. The Chief Minister stated that the government would ensure all arrangements to bring his body back with full state honours.
Body Repatriation (In Process)
Authorities in Singapore have completed initial legal formalities, and the Indian High Commission is coordinating with the Assam government to repatriate his mortal remains. Officials have stated that his body will be flown back to India as soon as the necessary clearances and paperwork are complete. The exact date and time of arrival in India are not yet officially confirmed.
Funeral
Zubeen Garg’s funeral is scheduled for September 23, 2025, near Guwahati with full state honours.
Here are a few related details:
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His mortal remains will be kept at Sarusajai Stadium for public viewing.
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The state has declared a four-day mourning period.
Controversies
| Year | Controversy | Reaction / Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Bhupen Hazarika Episode | Zubeen was criticized for allegedly belittling the legacy of Bhupen Hazarika during a public discussion. |
| 2015 | Disrespecting National Flag | Accused of hoisting the national flag while wearing informal attire during Independence Day celebrations. |
| 2017 | Criticizing State Anthem | Suggested that his song “Xonere Xojuwa Poja Khohi” should be the state anthem instead of “O Mur Apunar Desh.” |
| 2015 | Singing with a Gun | Wielded a gun during a performance in Guwahati, leading to concerns over promoting violence. |
| 2013 | Assaulting a Minor | Slapped a 16-year-old fan for allegedly smoking in public. |
| 2019 | Controversy with ULFA | Accused of making derogatory remarks about the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA). |
| 2014 | Clash with Asomiya Pratidin | Engaged in a public dispute with the Assamese newspaper over misrepresentation. |
| 2014 | Clash with Manisha Hazarika | Faced legal action from Manisha Hazarika over the unauthorized use of Jayanta Hazarika’s compositions in his album. |
| 2019 | Controversial Brahmin Remarks | Made a statement that “these Brahmins should be killed,” leading to widespread outrage. |
| 2021 | Nishita Goswami Controversy | Made explicit remarks about actress Nishita Goswami during the Prag Cine Awards. |
| 2021 | Misbehaving with LGBTQ Activist | Allegedly misbehaved with LGBTQ rights activist Milan Dutta during an event. |
Despite these controversies, Zubeen Garg remained a significant and polarizing figure in Assamese culture. He often clarified his statements and actions, attempting to engage constructively with the public and media thereafter.
Awards & Achievements
| Year | Award / Honor | Category / Work |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | National Film Award – Best Male Playback Singer | “Dilruba” |
| 2024 | Honorary Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) | University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya |
| (Other regional/state awards) | Various Prag Cine Awards, BFJA, etc. | Multiple works in Assamese and Bengali (exacts vary) |
Personal Life
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Garima Saikia Garg (married on 4 February 2002)
|
| Children | Sources do not clearly confirm biological children; survived by spouse and family |
| Lifestyle | He lived between Assam and Mumbai for professional work; he maintained deep ties to regional culture. He also supported social causes. |
Zubeen married Garima in 2002, and their union stood as both personal and creative partnership. He rarely sought limelight for his private affairs. Meanwhile, he remained committed to Assam—performing, preserving culture, and contributing to community efforts. Thus, his personal life mirrored his professional ethos: grounded, active, culturally connected.
Favourites
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Hobbies / Interests | Playing multiple musical instruments; poetry; engaging with regional folk traditions |
| Favorite Languages to Sing In | Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, and many regional/tribal languages (over 40) |
| Favorite Style / Genres | Folk, pop, filmi, sufi elements, Indian classical fusion |
Net Worth
| Source | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth (by media, 2024-25) | ≈ US$8 million (≈ ₹70 crore) |
| Income Sources | Playback singing, music albums, live concerts/stage shows, acting & film production, brand endorsements |
Car Collection
| Vehicle | Type / Detail |
|---|---|
| BMW X5 | Luxury SUV |
| Mercedes-Benz | Luxury car (model not always specified) |
| Range Rover Velar | Luxury SUV |
| Isuzu SUV (custom coating) | Utility/luxury crossover with custom details |
Social Contributions & Philanthropy
| Year / Period | Initiative / Contribution |
|---|---|
| 2000s | Raised funds through concerts for flood-affected areas in Assam |
| 2010 | Launched awareness campaigns against drug and alcohol abuse among youth |
| 2014 | Donated for the treatment of cancer patients and supported child healthcare programs |
| 2018 | Actively participated in campaigns to preserve Assamese culture and local heritage |
| 2019 | Led and actively participated in protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in Assam |
| 2020–2025 | Organized charity shows to support education for underprivileged children and welfare for artists |
Zubeen Garg used his fame to drive social change and support humanitarian causes across Assam. He consistently raised funds for flood victims, sponsored medical treatments for needy children, and advocated against drug and alcohol abuse. In 2019, he became a prominent cultural voice opposing the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), leading large-scale peaceful protests in Assam to defend Assamese identity and constitutional rights. Furthermore, he promoted Assamese culture through public campaigns and worked to preserve the region’s artistic heritage. Even in his final years, from 2020 to 2025, he hosted charity concerts to fund education for underprivileged children and provided financial assistance to struggling artists. His efforts left a strong impact on both society and the cultural landscape of Assam.
Reactions to Zubeen Garg’s Passing
Just yesterday, India lost a brilliant actor in Robo Shankar, and today the Indian music industry mourns the loss of another star, Zubeen Garg. His departure has left a deep void in the hearts of music lovers and fellow artists alike.
Family & Close Friends
Zubeen Garg’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, was seen deeply grieving his untimely demise. A poignant image surfaced showing her in tears, reflecting the profound personal loss.
His childhood friend recalled their shared musical journey, expressing that Zubeen’s departure felt like losing a part of himself.
🎤 Fellow Artists & Musicians
The music industry mourned the loss of a legend. Artists like Vishal Dadlani, Armaan Malik, Shaan, Papon, Pritam, and Vishal Mishra took to social media to express their shock and sorrow. Armaan Malik shared, “I am devastated and in disbelief. May his soul rest in peace #ZubeenGarg.”
Jeet Gannguli – Music Composer & Childhood Friend
Debojit Saha – Singer & Bigg Boss 2 Fame
Papon – Singer & Musician
Vishal Mishra – Singer & Composer
Political Leaders & Government Officials
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Zubeen Garg as a vital bridge between regional and mainstream Indian music, highlighting his significant cultural contributions.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma referred to him as a “priceless gem” of Assam and assured the public that his mortal remains would be brought back from Singapore.
Other political figures, including Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, BJP State President Dilip Saikia, and leaders from Asom Gana Parishad, Raijor Dal, and AIUDF, expressed their condolences, emphasizing Zubeen’s role as a cultural icon and a source of pride for the Assamese community.
💬 Fans & Public Tributes
Fans across Assam and beyond were deeply affected by his passing. Many gathered outside his residence in Guwahati to pay their respects. Social media platforms were flooded with tributes, with individuals sharing his songs, photos, and personal memories, calling him the soundtrack of their lives.
Lesser-Known Facts
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He played 12 instruments, including tabla, guitar, harmonica, dotara, dhol, mandolin, etc.
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He recorded over 38,000 songs in more than 40 languages/dialects.
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He dropped out of his B.Sc. to pursue music full-time, after early success in youth festivals.
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He offered one of his buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic as a care centre.
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He asserted that he did not have any caste or religion, identifying as irreligious / non-sectarian.
Key Takeaways
| Zubeen Garg was a versatile Indian singer, music director, composer, and actor from Assam who gained fame across India. |
| He rose to national stardom with the Bollywood song “Ya Ali” from the film Gangster in 2006. |
| He contributed to music in over 40 languages, including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and other regional dialects. |
| He married fashion designer Garima Saikia in 2002, and they lived a culturally rooted yet modern lifestyle in Assam. |
| His estimated net worth stood in multi-crores, fueled by playback singing, concerts, film production, and endorsements. |
| Zubeen Garg passed away on 19 September 2025 in Singapore, leaving behind a rich legacy in Indian music and cinema. |
| Platform | Official Handle / Link |
|---|---|
| @zubeen.garg | |
| X (formerly Twitter) | @zubeengarg1 |
| ZUBEEN OFFICIAL | |
| YouTube | Zubeen Garg Music |
Conclusion
Zubeen Garg lived dynamically, pushing musical and cultural boundaries. Through his songs, instruments, and bold personality, he left an indelible mark that stretched far beyond his home state. Even though he has passed away, his contributions continue to speak, influence, and inspire. His life demonstrates that art and passion, when pursued sincerely, endure beyond time and circumstance.
Latest News
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On 19 September 2025, Zubeen Garg died in Singapore following a scuba-diving related incident.
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His death prompted tributes from political leaders, fans, and fellow artists across India.
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He was in Singapore for the North East Festival where he was scheduled to perform.
FAQs
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Who was Zubeen Garg?
He was an Indian musician originally from Assam who sang in Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and many other languages. He also composed, acted, directed, and grew into a national figure. -
What made “Ya Ali” significant for his career?
“Ya Ali” from the Bollywood film Gangster (2006) brought him widespread recognition beyond regional boundaries. -
How many songs did he record?
He recorded over 38,000 songs in more than 40 languages/dialects. -
Did he receive national awards?
Yes. He won the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 2009 for the song “Dilruba”. He also got an honorary D.Litt. in 2024. -
What is his estimated net worth?
Media sources estimate his net worth at around US$8 million (≈ ₹70 crore) around 2024-25. Most of his earnings came from songs, concerts, films, and endorsements.
