Zubeen Garg Biography (1972–2025): The Untold Story of Assam’s Legendary Voice and Cultural Icon

Zubeen Garg Biography—The Voice That Defined a Generation

When people talk about music in Assam, one name always rises above the rest—Zubeen Garg. He was not only a singer; he was the voice, the heartbeat, and the spirit of an entire generation. People called him the Voice of Assam, Luit Kontho, and even Assam’s Eternal Wild. His music carried emotions that touched millions—songs of joy, pain, rebellion, and love.

But Zubeen’s story is not just about music. It is about struggles, victories, controversies, and a life lived with raw honesty. This Zubeen Garg Biography takes you through his remarkable journey—from his childhood to his last days in 2025 and the everlasting legacy he left behind.

Roots of a Star: Early Life and Family

Zubeen Garg was born on November 18, 1972, in Tura, Meghalaya. His real name was Zubeen Borthakur, but later he adopted “Garg” from his family gotra. Interestingly, he was named after the world-famous music conductor Zubin Mehta.

His father, Mohini Mohon Borthakur, was a magistrate and also a poet. His mother, Ily Borthakur, was a singer, dancer, and actor. Growing up in such a creative family, Zubeen’s childhood was full of art, music, and literature. This environment shaped him into the artist he became.

The Spark of Stardom: The Rise in Assam

At just 19, Zubeen released his first Assamese album, Anamika (1992). The album became an instant hit and changed Assamese modern music forever. Youngsters across Assam found a new voice in Zubeen.

Soon, albums like Maya, Asha, and Pakhi followed. By the early 1990s, Zubeen was not just a singer anymore—he was a youth icon of Assam.

Love and Loss: The Tragedy of Jongki

In 2002, tragedy struck when Zubeen’s sister, Jongki Borthakur, a talented actress and singer, died in a road accident. Her death shattered him.

But from this pain, Zubeen created one of his most emotional works, the album Xixhu. It was more than music—it was his heart poured out in melodies. Through grief, he showed the world how deeply music could connect with emotions.

Zubeen Garg in Bollywood: The “Ya Ali” Phenomenon

In 1995, Zubeen moved to Mumbai to try his luck in Hindi films. At first, things were tough, but slowly he got noticed. He sang for movies like Fiza, Kaante, and Dil Se…

His big break came with the song “Ya Ali” from the movie Gangster (2006). The song became a nationwide hit, making Zubeen a household name across India. Suddenly, the boy from Assam was singing to the entire country.

Choosing Assam Over Fame

Even after finding fame in Bollywood, Zubeen made a bold choice—he returned to Assam. Instead of chasing stardom, he believed world-class music could be created at home.

“I prefer to live with my people,” he once said. This decision made him a cultural hero in Assam, loved not just as a singer but as one of their own.

The Voice of Assam: A Prolific Journey

Back home, Zubeen transformed Assamese music again. He gave it a modern touch while keeping its soul alive.

• He sang in over 40 languages.
• Recorded more than 38,000 songs.
• Played 12 instruments, including tabla, guitar, drums, and dhol.

His versatility made him one of the most talented and hardworking artists India has ever seen.

Beyond Music: Films, Activism, and Charity

Zubeen was not only a singer.

• He acted in and directed movies like Tumi Mur Matho Mur (2000), Mission China (2017), and Kanchanjangha (2019).
• Won a National Award for music direction in Dinabandhu (2005).
• Started the Kalaguru Artiste Foundation to help young artists.
• Donated his Guwahati home as a COVID-19 care center (2021).
• Spoke up for animal rights and received PETA India’s “Hero to Animals” award in 2018.

He was not just an entertainer; he was also a social worker and activist who cared deeply for people.

The Rebel Side: Controversies

Zubeen was known for being outspoken. He often spoke his mind without fear, which led to controversies.

• He defied militant groups by singing Hindi songs when they were banned.
• His songs became anthems during the anti-CAA protests in 2019.
• Some of his remarks on religion, politics, and culture made headlines and drew criticism.

But even with all the controversies, people loved him for his honesty and fearless attitude.

The Final Chapter: Farewell to a Legend

In September 2025, Zubeen went to Singapore to perform at the North East India Festival. On September 19, 2025, tragedy struck—he collapsed during a swimming session. At just 52, Assam’s voice was gone.

His body was brought back to Guwahati on September 21. Thousands filled the streets, showering flowers and singing his songs. The Assam government declared three days of mourning.

It was not just a funeral—it was the farewell of a king.

Zubeen Garg’s Legacy

Even though he is gone, Zubeen’s music and spirit live forever.

• He modernized Assamese music while keeping its roots alive.
• Gave people songs of love, hope, and protest.
• Proved that one artist can carry the soul of a whole community.

As Zubeen once said, “Fame and awards are temporary, but the song that touches people’s hearts stays forever.” And his songs surely will.

Chronological Timeline of Zubeen Garg’s Life

Conclusion: The Eternal Wild

The Zubeen Garg Biography is not just the story of a singer. It is the story of a dreamer, a rebel, a lover, and a legend. From a small-town boy to an international star, his journey inspired millions.

Even in death, his voice still echoes in the flow of the Brahmaputra, in the hearts of Assamese youth, and in the memories of fans across the world.

Zubeen Garg was not just Assam’s voice—he was its soul.

Zubeen Garg's Last Instagram Post

Zubeen Garg was conferred with the SD Burman Award on 28th October 2024.