Zubeen Garg death: Riyan Parag pays tribute to Ya Ali fame singer

Originally posted on Crictoday | By V.M.Suriya Narayanan | Last updated Sep 21, 2025 9:22 AM ET

The unexpected death of renowned Assamese and Bollywood singer Zubeen Garg has led to an overwhelming flood of tributes from all over India. One of those mourning his loss is Indian cricketer Riyan Parag, who shared his deep sadness over the passing of the legendary singer.

Garg tragically lost his life on September 19 after a scuba diving accident in Singapore. He was in the country to perform at the North East Festival. According to reports, Garg initially wore a life jacket but took it off soon after, claiming it was uncomfortable. Moments later, he was discovered floating in the water. Despite prompt rescue attempts and being swiftly taken to Singapore General Hospital, he could not be revived.

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“Aap agar nahi talai to main Jubin Garg ki baat kar raha hoon. I referred to him as Dabang Mama because he was truly a warrior,” Parag said.

This untimely loss has created a significant void in the music industry, especially in Assam, where Garg was considered a cultural figure. In Guwahati, thousands of fans gathered to pay their respects when his body arrived. Both Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their condolences, recognising Garg’s immense contribution to Indian music.

For Parag, who comes from Assam, the loss was deeply personal. He referred to Garg as “Dabangg Mama” and, in a heartfelt video, described the singer as a revolutionary figure who not only changed Assamese music but also brought it to national prominence with hits like “Ya Ali” from the 2006 film Gangster.

In Assam, the news of Garg’s death brought the state to a standstill. A large crowd gathered at Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport to receive his body, with police having to step in as the crowd grew.

This article first appeared on Crictoday and was syndicated with permission.

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