Singapore

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has shared a detailed update regarding the repatriation of singer Zubeen Garg’s mortal remains, who tragically passed away in Singapore at the age of 52. Zubeen, one of Assam’s most beloved cultural icons, died on Friday while in Singapore to perform at the North East Festival.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), CM Sarma confirmed that Singaporean authorities have scheduled a post-mortem examination of the late singer. “We expect this to conclude by 2 PM SGT (11:30 AM IST). Thereafter, his mortal remains will be handed over to Indian authorities, and we shall begin the process of bringing him home,” the Chief Minister posted.

I am in constant touch with the High Commissioner of India H.E Dr Shilpak Ambule.

We are coordinating to ensure beloved Zubeen’s mortal remains return to Assam at the earliest. As soon as the process is firmed up, I will share an update. @HCI_Singapore

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 19, 2025

He further added that he is in regular contact with the Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, to ensure that the necessary formalities are completed swiftly. “I am in constant touch with the High Commissioner. We are coordinating to ensure beloved Zubeen’s mortal remains return to Assam at the earliest. As soon as the process is firmed up, I will share an update,” he assured.

Once the mortal remains arrive in India, they will be kept at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. This will allow fans and admirers an opportunity to pay their last respects. “We hope to bring back Zubeen to Guwahati at the earliest. There will be an opportunity for the public to pay their last tributes at Sarusajai,” Sarma added. “Thousands of his admirers are waiting on the streets to have his last glimpse – we are doing our best to bring him back home soon.”

A Life and Voice That Touched Millions

Zubeen Garg had travelled to Singapore to participate in the North East Festival, a cultural event showcasing the region’s talent and heritage. He was scheduled to perform at the festival a day after his sudden demise. According to a statement by the festival organisers, the singer encountered breathing difficulties during a scuba diving session. He was immediately given CPR and rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where he was declared dead around 2:30 PM IST, despite all medical efforts.

His sudden passing has sent shockwaves across the Northeast and beyond. Known for his unmatched energy on stage, emotional depth in his songs, and deep connection with the Assamese identity, Zubeen Garg was more than just a singer — he was a symbol of cultural pride.

In an official statement, Chief Minister Sarma mourned Zubeen’s passing, calling it a loss that words cannot fully express. “Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. He has gone too early. This was not an age to go,” he said. “His unique voice stirred the masses and created music that touched the hearts and souls of people from all walks of life. His voice had an unmatched ability to energise people and his music directly spoke to the minds and souls.”

The Chief Minister and his wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, also visited Zubeen’s residence in Guwahati to personally offer their condolences to the grieving family. They met with the late singer’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, and other family members. Sharing a moment from their visit on X, Sarma posted, “Riniki and I visited the residence of our beloved Zubeen in Guwahati to stand in solidarity with his family in this hour of grief.”

As Assam awaits the arrival of Zubeen Garg’s mortal remains, tributes continue to pour in from fans, fellow artists, and public figures across the nation. Streets in Guwahati and other parts of Assam are already filled with admirers holding vigils, singing his songs, and preparing to bid farewell to the man who shaped an era of music in the region.

Zubeen’s death marks the end of a chapter in Assamese cultural history, but his legacy will live on through his music, his message, and the love he inspired in millions.