Guwahati, Sept 19: Born Zubeen Borthakur on November 18, 1972, in Tura, Meghalaya, Zubeen Garg went on to become one of the most influential voices of Assam and the Northeast. A singer–songwriter, composer, actor, and philanthropist, he left behind a legacy that transcended borders and languages.
He was the son of Mohini Mohon Borthakur, a magistrate, lyricist, and poet who wrote under the pen name Kapil Thakur, and late Ily Borthakur, a singer. Named after world-renowned composer Zubin Mehta, he later adopted his stage surname “Garg,” derived from his gotra, in the 1990s.
Growing up in a musically inclined household, Zubeen was deeply influenced by his family. His younger sister, Jonkey Borthakur, an actress and singer, tragically died in a road accident in 2002, inspiring him to release the album Xixhu in her memory. Another sister, Dr. Palme Borthakur, is an academic.
After schooling in Tamulpur, he enrolled at B. Borooah College in Guwahati for a science degree but left midway to pursue music. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, he mastered 12 instruments—including the guitar, tabla, harmonium, dotara, mandolin, and the rare anandalahari.
A stellar career
Zubeen’s journey began with his Assamese album Anamika in 1992, which earned him early recognition. He followed it with a string of successful albums like Junaki Mon (1993), Maya (1994), and Asha (1995). His first Bihu album, Ujan Piriti, became a commercial hit.
In 1995, he moved to Mumbai and ventured into the Hindi music industry, recording albums like Chandni Raat (1995), Chanda (1996), and Jadoo (1999). As a playback singer, he lent his voice to films including Dil Se (1998), Fiza (2000), and Kaante (2002).
His national breakthrough came with the chartbuster Ya Ali from Gangster (2006), which won him the Global Indian Film Award for Best Playback Singer. He also carved a significant presence in the Bengali music industry with hits such as Mon Mane Na, Piya Re Piya Re, and O Bondhure.
Over his career, Zubeen recorded more than 38,000 songs in over 40 languages and dialects—including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Boro, Karbi, Nepali, Khasi, and Sanskrit.
Recognitions
Among his many honours, Zubeen was named Guest Artist of the Year at the Assam Convention in Oak Brook, Illinois, United States, in 2011. On May 27, 2024, he was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) degree by the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya.
Singer Papon expressed his grief, saying, “This is so shocking! The voice of a generation! Gone too soon. At a loss of words! Lost a friend. Lost a brother. A big void. Praying for a peaceful journey of his soul.”
Beyond music
Zubeen was equally known for his philanthropy and activism. Through his Kalaguru Artiste Foundation, he contributed to flood relief work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he opened his Guwahati residence as a care centre. He was also a prominent cultural voice during the anti-CAA movement.
On the personal front, he married fashion designer Garima Saikia from Golaghat, Assam, on February 4, 2002.
Though born into a Brahmin family, Zubeen often described himself as irreligious, distancing himself from caste and religious identity.
Tributes pour in
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief on X, saying: “Shocked by the sudden demise of popular singer Zubeen Garg. He will be remembered for his rich contribution to music. His renditions were very popular among people across all walks of life. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said: “Today Assam lost one of its favourite sons. I am at a loss of words to describe what Zubeen meant for Assam. He has gone too early—this was not an age to go. Zubeen’s voice had an unmatched ability to energise people and his music spoke directly to our minds and souls. He has left a void that will never be filled. Rest well, Zubeen—you will always be Assam’s favourite rockstar.”
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu called him “a cultural torchbearer whose melodies brought people together, lifted spirits, and gave voice to our shared identity. My heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his soul find peace, and may his music live on forever.”
Assam water resources minister Pijush Hazarika said, “I am shattered and lost for words. It is unbelievable that our most beloved, the pride and heartthrob of Assam, Zubeen Garg, is no more. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled.”
BJP state president Dilip Saikia wrote, “Devastated by the loss of Assam’s heartthrob, #ZubeenGarg. A generational talent whose voice defined an era, he gave us over 38,000 songs across 40 languages. His legacy will echo forever. Rest in our hearts, Rockstar!”
State cultural minister Bimal Borah added, “For countless fans worldwide, our very own Zubeen Da was our পৃথিৱী. Today, our world is no more. His beautiful voice mesmerised millions. His immortal works will forever be remembered.”
Actor Adil Hussain shared, “Devastated and shocked by the news of Zubeen Garg’s sudden death. His contribution to Assamese music and culture is extraordinary. He will live amongst us through his songs. Goodbye Zubeen… until we meet on the other side.”
Nagaland tourism minister Temjen Imna Along said, “Zubeen Garg will always be an emotion, a voice that never fades. Rest in peace, Legend.”
Congress leader Ripun Bora added, “Deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely demise of our cultural icon Zubeen Garg. His voice, music, and indomitable spirit inspired generations across Assam and beyond.”
Also Read: Assamese music legend Zubeen Garg dies in scuba diving accident in Singapore
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