There are some voices that do not just sing songs — they live in our hearts forever. One such voice was Zubeen Garg, the legendary Assamese singer who gave the world unforgettable melodies, including the iconic “Ya Ali” from the Bollywood film Gangster. His sudden passing on 19th September 2025 has left millions heartbroken, yet his music continues to echo in our memories.
Zubeen was not just a singer; he was a dreamer, a poet, and a man who carried the soul of Assam with him wherever he went. From local Assamese albums to Bollywood blockbusters, his journey is a story of passion, talent, and an unshakable bond with music.
Zubeen Garg’s Life in Words

It is rare for the world to witness an artist whose very breath feels like music. Zubeen Garg, born on 18th November 1972 in the quiet town of Tura, Meghalaya, was one such soul. His childhood was surrounded by creativity — a mother, Ily Borthakur, who filled the home with her songs, and a father, Mohini Mohon Borthakur, who wrote lyrics that carried dreams. For little Zubeen, music was not just a hobby; it was the language of his soul.
He walked the path of education, studying at Tamulpur Higher Secondary School, Karimganj College, and later at B. Borooah College in Guwahati. Yet, classrooms and books could never contain his restless heart. He left his studies behind, not because he failed, but because his destiny was calling — a destiny that would make him the voice of millions.

Full Name | Zubeen Borthakur (popularly known as Zubeen Garg) |
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Date of Birth | 18 November 1972 |
Place of Birth | Tura, Meghalaya, India |
Date of Death | 19 September 2025 |
Occupation | Singer, Composer, |
Languages | Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, Tamil, and more (over 40 languages) |
Spouse | Garima Saikia Garg |
Parents | Mohini Mohon Borthakur (father), Ily Borthakur (mother) |
Famous Song | “Ya Ali” from Gangster |
Early Life and Roots in Music

Born in Tura, Meghalaya, Zubeen Garg grew up in a family where music was like air — his mother, Ily Borthakur, was a singer, and his father, Mohini Mohon, was a writer and lyricist. Naturally, music became his heartbeat.
He named himself “Zubeen” after the famous music composer Zubin Mehta, a reflection of the global inspiration he carried. His early struggles included singing at local gatherings, small programs, and composing in his bedroom. But his heart knew that one day, his voice would reach beyond borders.
The Musical Journey
Zubeen Garg’s official musical journey began with his Assamese album Anamika in 1992, which instantly connected him with the people of Assam. His voice had a unique sweetness, pain, and honesty that made people stop and listen. Slowly, he became a cultural icon in the North-East.
But his biggest breakthrough came in 2006, when he sang “Ya Ali” for the film Gangster. This one song changed his life. Suddenly, Zubeen was no longer just an Assamese singer — he was India’s voice of love, heartbreak, and longing.
“Ya Ali” – The Song That Touched Millions
When “Ya Ali” was released in 2006, it became an anthem of emotion. The song was powerful, raw, and spiritual — and it was Zubeen’s voice that gave it soul. Overnight, he became a household name across India. Even today, people say they still feel goosebumps when they hear the first line of Ya Ali.
For Zubeen, the success of Ya Ali was not just fame; it was proof that music with honesty always finds its way to people’s hearts. He once said in interviews that the song changed his destiny — and for his fans, it became his eternal gift.
Some of Zubeen Garg’s Most Loved Songs
Here’s a look at some of his popular songs across Bollywood and Assamese music:
Song Name | Film / Album | Year |
---|---|---|
Ya Ali | Gangster | 2006 |
Dil Tu Hi Bataa | Krrish 3 | 2013 |
Yaad Piya Ki Aane Lagi (cover) | Single | 2014 |
Pakeeza | Assamese Album | 1997 |
Mayabini | Assamese Album | 2000 |
Tumi Mur | Assamese Film Song | Various |
This table is just a glimpse of his incredible journey. In reality, Zubeen sang in over 40 languages and contributed to more than 18,000 songs throughout his career — a legacy very few can ever match.
Beyond Singing – The Many Faces of Zubeen Garg

What made Zubeen special was not just his voice. He was a multi-instrumentalist, equally skilled in tabla, guitar, harmonium, drums, and even traditional Assamese instruments. He also tried his hands at acting, writing poetry, and film direction.
For Zubeen, art was not limited to one form. He once said, “Music is my religion, my temple, and my soul.” And indeed, he lived by those words every single day.
💔 The Shocking News of His Death
On 19th September 2025, tragedy struck when Zubeen Garg lost his life in a scuba diving accident in Singapore. The news spread like wildfire, and social media was filled with tears, prayers, and disbelief. Fans across Assam, India, and even abroad lit candles, played his songs, and paid tributes.
It felt like the end of an era. But as his wife Garima Saikia Garg, and his family said in a statement, “Zubeen never really leaves — his music will always stay alive with us.”
🌹 Legacy That Lives Forever
Zubeen Garg’s voice was more than entertainment; it was healing. His songs carried emotions of love, loss, joy, and faith. He represented Assam on the global stage, but more importantly, he represented what it means to sing with your heart.
For every fan, Zubeen is not gone. He lives in the chorus of Ya Ali, in the melodies of his Assamese albums, and in the thousands of songs he gifted us.
❤️ Conclusion: A Voice That Time Cannot Silence
Zubeen Garg’s journey reminds us that real artists never die. Their bodies may leave, but their creations stay forever — comforting, inspiring, and connecting souls across generations.
As we remember him, we do not just mourn his death; we celebrate his life. Every time Ya Ali plays, or an Assamese tune drifts through the air, we will feel him close — smiling, singing, and reminding us that love is eternal, just like music.
Rest in peace, Zubeen Garg 🌹. You gave us not just songs, but pieces of your soul. And that is something death can never take away.
Who was Zubeen Garg?
Zubeen Garg was a legendary Indian singer, composer, lyricist, and actor from Assam. He is best remembered for his soulful voice and the iconic Bollywood song “Ya Ali” from Gangster (2006).
When and where was Zubeen Garg born?
He was born on 18 November 1972 in Tura, Meghalaya, India, into a family deeply connected with art and literature.
What was Zubeen Garg’s most famous song?
His most famous song is “Ya Ali” from the Bollywood film Gangster (2006), which made him a household name across India and abroad.
How many songs did Zubeen Garg sing in his career?
Zubeen Garg recorded more than 18,000 songs in over 40 languages, making him one of India’s most versatile and prolific singers.
What happened to Zubeen Garg in 2025?
On 19 September 2025, Zubeen Garg tragically passed away in a scuba diving accident in Singapore. His sudden death left millions of fans heartbroken.
Who was Zubeen Garg’s wife?
He has been married to Garima Saikia Garg since 2002, and she stood by him throughout his musical journey.
What is Zubeen Garg’s legacy?
His legacy lies in his timeless music, his contribution to Assamese culture, and his ability to connect with people emotionally through his voice. Even though he is no longer with us, his songs continue to inspire generations
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