Assam Marks Zubeen Garg's First Death Anniversary with Zubeen Divas

Assam began commemorating the first death anniversary of cultural icon Zubeen Garg on Thursday, September 17, 2026, with a series of cultural and spiritual programmes at Zubeen Kshetra, his memorial in Sonapur. The site, located on National Highway 27, lies roughly 23 km east of Guwahati.

Garg died on September 19, 2025, while swimming off an island near Singapore. His death triggered widespread outrage in Assam, and seven people were arrested in connection with the case.

Speaking about the observance, the singer-composer's wife, Garima Saikia Garg, said September 17 would be marked as Zubeen Divas, or Zubeen Day, to begin the commemoration.

Assam's Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Bora said the state government would manage the logistics and extend other necessary support for the programmes, which include cultural functions and prayer sessions.

Thousands of Garg's fans are expected to visit Zubeen Kshetra over the three days. In a tribute to the cultural icon, the Assam State Drivers' Union has offered fans low-fare rides to and from the venue during this period.

While the Singapore Police Force and State Coroner Adam Nakhoda concluded that Garg's death was an accidental drowning with no evidence of foul play or murder, the Assam government set up a Special Investigation Team of the state police to fix responsibilities. Of the seven people named in the SIT's charge sheet, four face murder charges. A special fast-track court in Guwahati is hearing the case.