Singapore/Guwahati, September 20, 2025 — Renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg tragically passed away at the age of 52 following a scuba diving accident in Singapore on September 19. A video capturing his final moments before the incident has surfaced online, offering a poignant glimpse into the hours leading up to the tragedy.
The viral footage shows Garg aboard a yacht, adjusting his life jacket and preparing to enter the water. He is seen smiling and interacting with friends before leaping into the sea for a swim. According to eyewitnesses and festival organizers, Garg was in Singapore to perform at the 4th North East India Festival, where he was scheduled to headline a cultural showcase on September 20.
During the sea outing, Garg reportedly developed severe breathing difficulties shortly after diving. He was rescued and administered CPR before being rushed to Singapore General Hospital. Despite intensive medical efforts, he was declared dead in the ICU around 2:30 PM IST.
Tributes have poured in from across India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “Shocked by the sudden demise of popular singer Zubeen Garg. He will be remembered for his rich contribution to music. His renditions were very popular among people across all walks of life. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti”.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also mourned the loss, writing, “Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. I am at a loss for words to describe what Zubeen meant for Assam. He has gone too early, this was not an age to go. His voice had an unmatched ability to energise people and his music spoke directly to our minds and souls”.
Music composer Vishal Dadlani described Garg as “a true megastar, a man of his people, a true lover of Assam,” adding that his death leaves “a void I don’t think anyone else can ever fill”.
Zubeen Garg rose to national fame with the hit song “Ya Ali” from the 2006 Bollywood film Gangster. Over his three-decade career, he recorded songs in over 40 languages, including Assamese, Hindi, and Bengali, and was widely credited with bringing Assamese music to mainstream Indian audiences.
Singapore authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Meanwhile, thousands of fans gathered outside Garg’s residence in Guwahati to pay their respects, with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes lining the streets.
The final video, now widely circulated, stands as a haunting reminder of the singer’s vibrant spirit and the fragility of life.
