The Zubeen Garg funeral on 23 September 2025 at Kamarkuchi, Sonapur near Guwahati, marked a historic day in Assam’s cultural history. The beloved singer, who passed away in Singapore after complications from a swimming incident, was given a state funeral with full honours, including a 21-gun salute.
Assam Mourns Its Voice
Thousands of fans, well-wishers, and admirers poured into Kamarkuchi to pay their final respects. The outpouring of grief reflected how deeply Zubeen Garg touched lives through his music and personality.
State authorities declared 22 and 23 September as dry days across Assam, honouring the late singer’s influence on society. From Guwahati to the remotest villages, the atmosphere carried both mourning and reverence.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, cultural leaders, and prominent figures from Assam’s art and film fraternity were present. They remembered him not just as a singer, but as a humanitarian and a unifying cultural force.
Final Journey of Zubeen Garg
The funeral procession began in Guwahati and made its way to Kamarkuchi, where Zubeen Garg was laid to rest. Along the route, fans showered petals, held banners, and sang his songs.
At the funeral ground, Assam Police accorded a 21-gun salute, a rare state honour reserved for icons who shape the cultural identity of the region. People joined together in singing his evergreen song “Mayabini”, turning the farewell into a chorus of love and remembrance.
Legacy Beyond Music
Zubeen Garg was more than a singer. With over 30,000 recorded songs across Assamese, Bengali, and Hindi, he stood as one of Northeast India’s greatest cultural ambassadors. His Bollywood breakthrough with “Ya Ali” in 2006 brought him national recognition, but he always remained deeply rooted in Assam’s musical tradition.
In his career, Garg supported numerous social causes, from environmental campaigns to youth empowerment. His humanitarian spirit added to his reputation as the “heartthrob of Assam.”
Government Orders Probe and Second Autopsy
The Assam government has ordered a CID inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Zubeen Garg’s death in Singapore. Amid public concern and speculation, authorities also called for a second autopsy in Assam to ensure transparency.
The move reflects both the high-profile nature of his passing and the public demand for clarity. Officials stressed that all procedures would be carried out respectfully, keeping in mind the sentiments of his family and fans.
Tributes Across India
Tributes poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, acknowledging Garg’s role in strengthening Northeast India’s cultural identity.
Film personalities, singers, and political leaders shared messages highlighting his unmatched contribution to Assamese and Indian music. Across social media, fans posted personal stories of how his songs had touched their lives.
Fans Unite in Mourning
The emotional weight of the Zubeen Garg funeral was most evident in the eyes of his fans. Many had travelled long distances, some walking for hours, to be part of the final farewell.
“Zubeen Da was more than a singer; he was our voice,” said a fan in tears. Another added, “He gave Assam pride and identity. His absence leaves a void we cannot fill.”
This unity in mourning underscored the power of his art to bind communities across boundaries of language, ethnicity, and religion.
Cultural Impact of His Death
The passing of Zubeen Garg leaves a deep cultural vacuum. He represented a bridge between traditional Assamese folk and contemporary music, influencing generations of singers and musicians.
Cultural experts believe his death may inspire renewed efforts to preserve and promote Assamese music globally. Already, community organisations have announced plans for annual music festivals in his memory.
Call to Preserve His Legacy
As Assam recovers from this loss, voices are rising to institutionalise his legacy. Proposals include setting up a Zubeen Garg Cultural Centre in Guwahati, archiving his works, and introducing his music in educational curricula.
For younger artists, his life stands as a reminder that regional voices can resonate across the nation and beyond.
A Farewell That Echoes Forever
The Zubeen Garg funeral was not just a farewell—it was a moment when an entire state stood united in grief and pride. His songs will continue to echo in homes, radios, and hearts, ensuring that his voice lives on.
Assam has lost its cultural icon, but the legacy of Zubeen Garg will remain immortal. Fans, leaders, and family members alike urge everyone to honour him by keeping his music alive.
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