The entertainment world is reeling from sad news. Beloved singer Zubeen Garg has passed away, leaving many heartbroken. He was in Singapore for a performance when a tragic scuba diving accident claimed his life.
Just days after his passing, the local government has taken firm action. On Wednesday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a ban. Shyamkanu Mahanta, the main organizer of the North East Festival, cannot host any events or ceremonies in the region. Zubeen Garg was set to participate in this very festival in Singapore before his untimely death.
A Sad End in Singapore
The incident happened on September 19. Zubeen Garg was in Singapore for the fourth North East Festival. This event was organized by Mahanta and his company. It was during this trip that he died in a scuba diving accident.
Chief Minister’s Stern Message
Chief Minister Sarma didn’t hold back on X (formerly Twitter). He stated, “Our government has banned Shyamkanu Mahanta and his associated groups. They cannot hold any functions or festivals within our state boundaries.” He added, “The state will also ask the central government to stop all financial aid to him.”
The State Government has decided to prohibit Shri Syamkanu Mahanta and any organisation associated with him from holding any functions or festivals within the State of Assam. Further, the State Government will not provide any financial grant, advertisement, or sponsorship to any…
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 24, 2025
– Photo : [email protected]
Festival’s Wide Support
The North East Festival isn’t a small event. It gets sponsorship from several central government departments. Also, almost all the North Eastern state governments back it. This makes the Chief Minister’s ban a very significant move.
A Farewell to a Legend
On Tuesday, Zubeen Garg was laid to rest. His funeral was held with full state honors. The ceremony took place in Kamarkuchi, a forested area outside Guwahati. Thousands of heartbroken fans gathered to say goodbye. They sang his beloved songs, a touching tribute to their idol.