A Heartfelt Tribute to Zubeen Garg: The Voice of Assam
- Santanu Chaudhury
- Sep 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 7
It is with a heart weighed down by profound grief and utter disbelief that we write this today. The news that has swept across Assam, the Northeast, and the entire nation feels like a bad dream we can't wake up from. The iconic voice that was the soundtrack to our lives, our joys, our struggles, and our celebrations has been tragically silenced.
According to reports, our beloved Zubeen Garg passed away on Friday following a scuba diving accident in Singapore. The simple, clinical nature of that sentence does nothing to convey the seismic shockwave of loss that has followed. To us, he was never just a singer; he was Zubeen Da—a force of nature, a cultural icon, and the very soul of contemporary Assamese music.
Here at Tech Guru Assam Institute, while our core is technology and innovation, we have always celebrated the arts and culture that form our identity. For decades, Zubeen Da's voice was the most powerful amplifier of that identity. His music transcended mere entertainment. It was the background score to countless first loves, the anthem of Bihu celebrations, the solace in moments of solitude, and the roar of regional pride.
More Than a Voice: The Legacy of Zubeen Garg
What made Zubeen Da truly legendary was his breathtaking versatility. He could effortlessly switch from the raw, earthy energy of a Bihu geet like "Tomare Kori Thake Bhabo" to the soul-stirring devotion of "Allah Allah" or the timeless romantic ballad "Ya Ali." He wasn't confined by genre or language. He sang with equal passion in Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and other languages, carrying the essence of the Northeast to a national audience.
Who from our generation can forget the youthful rebellion of "Dola Hatir Rupohi" or the sheer cinematic magic he brought to Bollywood with tracks like "Ya Ali" from Gangster? Each song wasn't just sung; it was lived. He poured every ounce of his being into his music, and we felt it in ours.
A Personal Connection for Every Assamese
For the students, alumni, and team at our institute, Zubeen's music is woven into our personal histories. His tracks have been the playlist for late-night coding sessions, the celebration song after a successful project, and a comforting reminder of home for those studying or working away from Assam. He gave us a voice on the national stage and made us proud of our roots. His activism, straightforward nature, and unwavering love for his people made him more than an artist—he was a beloved son of the soil.
A Tragic and Untimely End
The nature of his passing—a scuba diving accident in Singapore—adds a layer of heartbreaking irony. A man whose voice had the power to command the largest stages and calm the most turbulent hearts was ultimately claimed by the sea. It is a stark reminder of how fragile life is and how unpredictable fate can be. The world of music has lost a genius, and Assam has lost a piece of its heart.
The Silence He Leaves Behind
The hills of Assam will echo a little emptier without his voice. The upcoming Bihu will feel different, missing its most powerful modern bard. While the digital archives of his work—the YouTube videos, the streaming playlists—will forever preserve his genius, the knowledge that there will be no new songs, no new concerts, leaves a void that can never be filled.
Remembering Zubeen Da: A Cultural Icon
Zubeen Garg was more than just a singer; he was a cultural phenomenon. His ability to connect with people through music was unparalleled. Each note he sang resonated with the hearts of many. His songs often reflected the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, making him relatable to all.
His influence extended beyond music. He was a voice for the voiceless, advocating for various social causes. His passion for Assamese culture inspired many to embrace their roots. Through his art, he fostered a sense of pride in our identity.
The Impact of His Music on Assamese Youth
Zubeen Da's music has significantly impacted the youth of Assam. His songs have become anthems of hope and resilience. They inspire young people to pursue their dreams and stay connected to their culture. His lyrics often encourage self-expression and creativity, making him a role model for aspiring artists.
The emotional depth of his music has helped many navigate the complexities of life. His songs have provided comfort during tough times, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.
The Future Without Zubeen Da
As we move forward, the absence of Zubeen Da will be felt deeply. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations. While we may not hear new songs, his existing body of work will keep his spirit alive.
We must honor his memory by celebrating his contributions to music and culture. Let us carry forward his message of love, unity, and pride in our heritage.
From all of us at Tech Guru Assam Institute—the coders, the designers, the thinkers, and the dreamers—we offer our deepest condolences to his family, his friends, and his countless fans around the world.
Thank you, Zubeen Da. Thank you for the music. Thank you for the pride. Thank you for the memories. Your voice may have been stilled, but your songs will continue to resonate in the heart of every Assamese, forever.
Rest in Power, Maestro. You were, and will always be, one of a kind.
(The Tech Guru Assam Institute Team)




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