Assamese community in Pune Pays Tearful Tribute to Zubeen Garg
Mohammadwadi, 19th September 2025: The Assamese community in Pune came together on Friday evening to pay an emotional tribute to singer Zubeen Garg, who died earlier in the day in Singapore during a scuba diving session.
At a condolence gathering organised by Juva Sangha in Mohammadwadi, people lit candles and offered prayers, remembering the voice that had been the soundtrack of their lives.
For many, the loss felt deeply personal. “It is both a sad and a black day for me and for all of Assam. We grew up listening to Zubeen da’s songs — at celebrations, parties, and in moments of joy. For the first time in my life, I have cried for a singer,” said Dr Pallabh, adding that Garg was regarded as a legend after Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika.
Kaustubh Saikia, who hails from Guwahati, described Garg as inseparable from the cultural identity of Assam. “We are shattered. Zubeen da was not just a singer; he was a part of Assam’s soul. His music was deeply woven into our traditions and way of life,” he said.
Others spoke of the void his absence will leave. “Though he has physically gone, he will always remain with us through his music,” said Jina Saikia, a teacher.
For performers like Upkul Barauh, a Bihu dancer now living in Pune, Garg’s songs were more than melodies — they were essential. “No Bihu celebration ever feels complete without his tracks. His voice carried our culture wherever we went,” he recalled.
Rajkumar Pegu, serving in the defence forces, remembered Garg as an artist who united people across regions. “The last time I saw him was in a video from Singapore, preparing for a concert. He sang in every sub-language of Assam and touched every heart. That was his gift,” he said.
As candles flickered in the evening breeze, it was clear that for the Assamese in Pune, Zubeen Garg’s music will continue to echo — a reminder of home, identity and an irreplaceable voice silenced too soon.
