Assam to host farewell for legendary singer at Sarusajai Sports Complex
GUWAHATI :Fans across Assam are preparing to bid an emotional farewell to Zubeen Garg, the state’s most loved musical icon. The Assam government announced that his mortal remains will be kept at Guwahati’s Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex (Sarusajai Stadium) on Sunday, September 21. People will be allowed to pay their last respects between 9 am and 7 pm.
Assam Chief Minister’s Announcement
Confirming the arrangements, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared details on X (formerly Twitter). He described Zubeen as “an artist larger than life, a cultural icon, filmmaker, and the eternal heartthrob of millions.”
The chief minister appealed for public cooperation, stating, “The final journey of Assam’s beloved son must be conducted with dignity and become a farewell to be remembered for all time.”
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 20, 2025
The government has made elaborate security and crowd-control preparations, expecting thousands of fans to gather for the tribute. A special cabinet meeting will also be held on Sunday evening to finalise the cremation venue.
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Three-Day State Mourning Declared
In the wake of Zubeen Garg’s sudden death, the Assam government declared a three-day state mourning from September 20 to 22. During this period, no official entertainment, ceremonial events, or public celebrations will be held.
The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed the decision, highlighting Zubeen’s immense contribution to Assamese culture and music. Across the state, public buildings have lowered flags as a mark of respect.
Meanwhile, thousands of grieving fans have gathered outside his residence in Guwahati, hoping for a final glimpse of the beloved artist. Emotional scenes unfolded as admirers lit candles, sang his songs, and placed flowers in tribute.
Zubeen Garg’s Sudden Passing
Zubeen Garg passed away on Friday in a tragic scuba diving accident in Singapore. He had traveled to the city to participate in the North East India Festival and was scheduled to perform on September 20.
The 52-year-old singer collapsed during the diving session and was declared dead shortly after. The news shocked his fans, who had been eagerly waiting for his performance abroad.
Zubeen’s untimely death has left a void in Indian music, particularly in Assam, where he was regarded as the cultural heartbeat of the state.
Life and Legacy of Zubeen Garg
Born in 1972 in Assam’s Jorhat district, Zubeen became a household name with his soulful voice and versatile performances. He recorded over 16,000 songs in multiple languages, including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and Nepali.
His breakout moment in Bollywood came with the hit song “Ya Ali” from the 2006 film Gangster, which won him national recognition. However, for Assamese audiences, he remained much more—a cultural ambassador who popularised local music on the national stage.
Zubeen was also a composer, lyricist, filmmaker, and actor. His creative versatility earned him admiration beyond the music industry. Known for his deep connection with fans, he was affectionately called “Zubeen Da.”
Nationwide Condolences
Messages of condolence poured in from across India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Zubeen’s death “an irreparable loss to India’s cultural and musical fraternity.” Bollywood celebrities, political leaders, and fellow musicians also expressed grief, remembering his voice as timeless.
Assam’s cultural institutions have announced special tributes in the coming weeks. Several music schools have planned performances of his most popular songs, while radio stations across the Northeast continue to play his classics in remembrance.
A Farewell to Remember
Sunday’s public tribute at Sarusajai Stadium is expected to draw an unprecedented crowd. The government has urged attendees to maintain discipline so that Zubeen’s final journey reflects the love and respect he earned.
For Assam, Zubeen Garg was more than a singer. He was a voice that echoed the emotions of millions, an artist who bridged folk traditions with contemporary music, and a symbol of cultural pride.
As the state prepares to say goodbye, his songs will continue to resonate—keeping alive the legacy of a man who will forever remain Assam’s “heartthrob.”