20 September,2025 05:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Zubeen Garg
The tragic passing away of singer Zubeen Garg in a fatal scuba diving incident has left the country in shock. Amid the news, the Assam government has announced a three-day state mourning in the wake of the death of a singer, who belonged to the state.
Assam CMO announced that there will be no official entertainment, ceremonial programs, and public celebrations during the three-day period. However, "essential activities" will be carried out under the 'Sewa Saptah' campaign. The decision for three-day state mourning was reportedly taken by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Taking to X the CMO announced, "In loving memory of Assam's eternal voice, Zubeen Garg. As a mark of respect, HCM Dr himantabiswa has directed that State Mourning be declared from 20th to 22nd September 2025. During this period, all official entertainment, ceremonial programs and public celebrations will be in abeyance. Assam Government stands in solidarity with the people in mourning beloved Zubeen. His legacy will forever resonate in our hearts. Essential service activities under 'Sewa Saptah' will continue, while ceremonial or benefit-distribution events stand postponed."
On Saturday, soon after the news of his passing away broke out, fans were seen in large numbers outside Garg's home as the state awaited the arrival of the singer's mortal remains from Singapore. Assam Minister for Power, Prasanta Phukan, who reached Garg's residence in the morning.
While speaking to ANI, he said, "Everyone knows that Zubeen is no longer with us. Later in the evening, arrangements have been made to bring him back here. His death has caused me deep pain because my relationship with him was very personal and very close."
Earlier on Saturday morning, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, also visited the late singer's residence in Guwahati to express condolences to the bereaved family. Sharing his emotions, he posted, "Riniki and I visited the residence of our beloved Zubeen in Guwahati to stand in solidarity with his family in this hour of grief. Thousands of his admirers are waiting on the streets to catch a last glimpse of him. We are constantly in touch to bring him back to Assam soon."
