Popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, known for his soulful voice and evergreen hits, passed away on September 19 in Singapore after a tragic swimming accident. According to officials, he removed his life jacket on a yacht trip, calling it oversized, but was later found floating in the sea. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Singapore General Hospital, he was declared dead. His mortal remains reached Delhi, where Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Pabitra Margherita, and senior officials received the casket before it was flown to Guwahati.

In Assam, emotions overflowed as thousands of fans poured onto the streets of Guwahati to bid farewell. From the airport to his residence, people lined the roads, chanting his iconic song ‘Maya Bini,’ which he once requested fans to sing after his passing. Shops closed as a mark of respect, while many showered flowers on the ambulance carrying his body. The deep grief of the crowd highlighted his unmatched bond with the people of Assam.

Zubeen Garg’s body was kept at his residence before being moved to the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex for the public to pay homage. At the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, heavy crowds led to a scuffle, with police resorting to mild lathi charge to manage the situation. Even amidst chaos, fans sang his songs, tears rolling down their faces, while a police constable on duty was also heard singing. The state government is expected to finalize the cremation details in consultation with the family and organizations, with the Assam Cabinet set to decide the funeral venue. Zubeen Garg’s passing has left a deep void in Indian music. His final journey in Assam reflects the profound love and admiration he earned, ensuring his legacy will live on forever through his voice and songs.