Guwahati: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday, October 17, visited the residence of late singer Zubeen Garg in Guwahati to personally extend his condolences to the bereaved family. The tragic passing of the beloved Assamese singer and composer has left millions of fans and the music community across India heartbroken.
Rahul Gandhi met Zubeen’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, and other family members, offering words of comfort as they continue to grieve the loss of the musical icon. During the visit, Gandhi paid heartfelt tribute to Zubeen, reflecting on the artist’s remarkable contribution to both Indian and Assamese music.
Speaking to reporters after his visit, Gandhi shared an emotional anecdote from his youth. “It is very sad for me to come here under these circumstances. I told the family I would have liked to come under happier circumstances. When I was 17, I went for a mountaineering course in Sikkim, and every day during training, I would see Mount Kanchenjunga. What I liked about the mountains is that they are honest, transparent, unshakable, and beautiful,” he recalled.
He went on to add, “Gaurav Gogoi told me that Zubeen ji said he was like Kanchenjunga, and it immediately connected with me — he truly embodied those qualities. He had wealth, success, and humility, which is something Assam should be proud of.” (Quotes sourced from Rahul Gandhi’s media interaction)
Zubeen Garg, a cultural icon in the Northeast and one of Assam’s most celebrated voices, passed away on September 19 in Singapore. Following his demise, the Singapore Police issued a statement clarifying that their preliminary inquiry found no signs of foul play. However, they noted that a comprehensive investigation is ongoing and may take up to three more months before being presented to the State Coroner.
“The SPF is committed to conducting a thorough and professional investigation into the case, and this takes time. We seek the patience and understanding of the parties involved. Meanwhile, we urge the public not to speculate and spread unverified information,” the statement read, as reported by the Singapore Police Force.
Meanwhile, authorities in Assam have arrested five individuals in connection with Garg’s death probe — including Northeast Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s manager Siddhartha Sharma, police officer and cousin Sandipan Garg, and his two personal security officers, Nandeswar Bora and Paresh Baishya.
