Zubeen Garg was more than a singer; he was a phenomenon. For decades, his voice resonated across Assam and beyond, redefining the cultural identity of the Northeast and leaving a mark on Indian music and cinema. Known for his versatility as a singer, music director, actor, composer, and cultural ambassador, Zubeen lived a life dedicated to art and left behind a legacy that generations will cherish.
Born: 18 November 1972, Tura
Died: 19 September 2025 (age 52 years), Singapore
Early Life and Rise in Music
Born in Assam, Zubeen Garg’s musical journey began with his debut album Anamika in 1992. The album, with its unique blend of traditional Assamese folk tunes and modern arrangements, immediately struck a chord with audiences. This was the turning point that announced the arrival of a fresh voice in the Assamese music industry.
From then on, Zubeen’s career skyrocketed. His voice was soulful yet versatile, able to traverse across genres — romantic ballads, devotional tracks, patriotic anthems, and high-energy Bollywood hits. Over time, he sang in multiple languages including Hindi, Bengali, Assamese, Bodo, Karbi, Tiwa, and Mising, cementing himself as a multilingual maestro.
🎼 Zubeen Garg as a Music Director
While he gained fame as a playback singer, Zubeen’s genius as a music director shaped the sound of modern Assamese cinema. His ability to fuse folk, classical, and contemporary sounds gave Assamese films a distinctive identity. Some of his finest works as a music director include:
- Hiya Diya Niya (2000)
- Tumi Mur Mathu Mur (2000)
- Nayak (2001)
- Prem Aru Prem (2002)
- Jonaki Mon (2002)
- Mon Jai (2008)
- Mission China (2017)
- Kanchanjangha (2019)
- Ratnakar (2019)
- Dr. Bezbaruah 2 (2023)
Through these projects, he not only enriched Assamese cinema but also gave regional music a global stage.
🎬 Zubeen Garg as an Actor
Zubeen’s talents were not confined to music alone. He also carved a niche as an actor, taking on roles that reflected both his charisma and his artistic depth. Some of his notable films include:
- Tumi Mur Mathu Mur (2000)
- Dinabandhu (2004)
- Gangster (2006, special appearance in “Ya Ali”)
- Mon Jaai (2008)
- Mission China (2017, as Colonel Goswami)
- Ratnakar
- Dr. Bezbaruah 2 (2023, as DSP Mahadev Borbaruah)
His dual role as both an actor and composer made him one of the most influential contributors to Assamese cinema.
Contribution to Assamese Music and Culture
Zubeen Garg’s contribution went far beyond entertainment — he was a cultural force. His songs spoke of love, identity, and pride, resonating with the Assamese spirit while connecting with audiences across India.
- He recorded thousands of songs, making him one of the most prolific artists of his era.
- By singing in tribal languages, he built bridges between indigenous traditions and mainstream culture.
- His film direction and production efforts raised the standard of Assamese cinema.
- As a poet and lyricist, he expressed the soul of Assam with unmatched intensity.
In essence, Zubeen was not only a singer but also a custodian of Assamese heritage who modernized music without losing touch with his roots.
Awards and Recognition
Zubeen Garg’s talent earned him accolades at both national and international levels. Here’s a look at some of his most significant awards:
| Year | Award | Work/Category |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Channel Music Award | Chandini Raat |
| 2005 | BFJA Award | Shudhu Tumi (Best Music Director) |
| 2005 | Prag Cine Award | Rong |
| 2006 | GIFA | Ya Ali (Gangster) – Best Playback Singer |
| 2007 | Filmfare, Zee Cine, IIFA, Stardust, Screen Awards | Ya Ali (Gangster) |
| 2008 | KalaKar Award | Zindegi / Tumi |
| 2009 | National Film Award | Echoes of Silence (Best Music Direction) |
| 2011–2015 | Prag Cine Awards | Jetuka Pator Dore, Raamdhenu, Me and My Sister, Shinyor, Ahetuk, Rodor Sithi |
| 2016 | Guo-Chup Music Award | Boliya Krishna |
| 2017 | Prag Cine & Theatre Awards | Gaane Ki Aane, Kohinoor Theatre |
| 2018 | Prag Cine & Theatre Awards | Mission China, Abahan Theatre |
| 2019 | Theatre Award | Deuta |
| 2021 | Prag Cine Award | Kanchanjangha, Ratnakar, Pratighat, Bornodi Bhotial |
| 2022 | Prag Cine Award | The Firing Range, Chandrawali |
| 2023 | Assam State Film Award | Kanchanjangha |
| 2023 | Rajasthan Film Festival | Dr. Bezbaruah² |
| 2024 | Filmfare Award (Assamese) | The Slam Book |
| 2025 | Bhupen Hazarika Award | Lifetime Achievement |
These awards reflect not just his popularity but also his critical acclaim across diverse platforms.
Hit Assamese Songs by Zubeen Garg
Some of his Assamese songs remain evergreen classics:
- Anamika
- Monor Nijanat
- Gaane Ki Aane
- Tumi Suwa Jetia
- Asha
- Mor Mon
- Sokuwe Sokuwe
- Roi Roi Binaale
- Pakhi Meli Diye
- Pakhi Pakhi Ai Mon
- Jantra
- Hai Hai Mari Dila
- Mayabini
These tracks continue to inspire younger generations of singers and music lovers alike.
Death and Legacy
On September 19, 2025, the music world was stunned when Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore due to a seizure and breathing complication while swimming. He was visiting the country to attend the 4th Northeast Festival, organized by Shyamkanu Mahanta.
His sudden demise left millions of fans heartbroken. Yet, his music, films, and contributions ensure that his spirit will live on. Zubeen’s journey symbolized the voice of Assam, the pride of the Northeast, and a bridge between regional and national art.
Zubeen Garg’s Eternal Impact
Zubeen Garg will forever be remembered as the soul of Assamese music. His works enriched not just Assam but the entire Indian musical landscape. By combining tradition with innovation, he built a lasting cultural legacy.
✨ His songs will continue to echo.
✨ His films will continue to inspire.
✨ His spirit will continue to unite Assam with the world.
Zubeen Garg may have left this world, but his voice will never fade.
