Guwahati, September 27, 2025 — Days after the tragic death of celebrated Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, his long-time manager Siddhartha Sharma has issued a detailed statement addressing widespread speculation surrounding the singer’s earnings, music rights, and the recent summons issued by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
In an open letter shared on social media, Sharma clarified that the majority of Garg’s extensive music catalogue—comprising over 38,000 recorded songs—is contractually owned by various production houses and music companies. “Almost all of Zubeen da’s songs, even the biggest blockbusters, were done before I entered his life,” Sharma wrote. “He often lamented how producers and labels earned crores while he received only modest payments. This can be verified with those companies directly”.
To secure ownership over some of his later works, Garg had established Zubeen Garg Music LLP in 2021, in which he held a 60% stake. Sharma, who was also a partner in the firm, stated that the LLP had generated only a few thousand rupees monthly and that the entire amount remains untouched in the company account. He pledged to ensure that Garg’s family, particularly his widow Garima Garg, inherits the singer’s rightful share.
Sharma also addressed allegations of financial exploitation, calling them “baseless and deeply hurtful.” He confirmed full cooperation with the SIT, which is investigating the circumstances surrounding Garg’s death. “Let the investigation proceed without fear or prejudice. We owe it to Zubeen da’s memory to pursue truth with dignity,” he stated.
The SIT had earlier raided Sharma’s residence in Guwahati’s Datalpara area. Officials reportedly waited outside the premises for nearly two hours before breaking the lock and conducting a search in the presence of a magistrate. Neighbours informed authorities that Sharma and his family had not been seen since the day Garg died.
Sharma has been summoned to appear before the SIT on October 6, along with several others who were present during Garg’s final trip to Singapore. Among those summoned is Shyamkanu Mahanta, organiser of the Northeast India Festival, and nearly a dozen individuals who accompanied Garg on the yacht prior to the fatal incident.
Zubeen Garg passed away on September 19 following a drowning accident in Singapore, where he was scheduled to perform at the Northeast India Festival. His death has prompted widespread mourning and calls for a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the tragedy.
