Guwahati/Itanagar/Imphal, 19 Sept

Leaders across the Northeast mourned the death of singing sensation Zubeen Garg, calling him a generational talent whose voice defined an era. Garg, 52, from Assam, was injured while scuba diving in Singapore and later died in the hospital.

In Assam, all political parties suspended their campaign for the Bodoland Territorial Council election scheduled for Monday. Garg, best known for the Bollywood hit 'Ya Ali' from 'Gangster' (2006), was in Singapore to attend the North East Festival.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described Garg as “one of Assam’s favourite sons” whose music “spoke directly to our minds and souls” and left “a void that will never be filled.” He added that future generations will remember Garg as a stalwart of Assam’s culture.

Congress Deputy Leader in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi said Garg’s songs captured the spirit of Assam and gave voice to its people’s emotions, calling his loss “a deep void in our musical and cultural life.”

Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal described Garg as “the heartbeat of a generation” and a symbol of pride for millions. State BJP president Dilip Saikia called the singer a “generational talent” with over 38,000 songs across 40 languages.

Both the BJP and the Congress organised condolence meetings at their state headquarters. Asom Gana Parishad president Atul Bora prayed for strength for Garg’s family and fans, while Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi called him a jewel for the Assamese community. AIUDF president Badruddin Ajmal said the singer was “in the heart of every Assamese, irrespective of religion or community.”

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu described Garg as a cultural torchbearer whose melodies brought people together and lifted spirits. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein said his “voice and legacy will forever live on,” and Health Minister Biyuram Wahge praised his contributions to the region, including songs dedicated to Arunachal Pradesh.

Former Manipur CM N Biren Singh called Garg a true cultural icon whose voice echoed the soul of the Northeast.

Garg’s death has left the region in mourning, with leaders, fans, and fellow artists paying tribute to a singer whose music transcended borders and generations.