Zubeen Garg: The Rebel Voice of Assam Who United Millions
Introduction
In a country where many Bollywood celebrities often bow to power and money, few artists stand tall against the system. Zubeen Garg was one of those rare voices — a true rebel, a fighter, and the heart of an entire generation in Assam.
On 19 September 2025, tragedy struck when the waves of the sea claimed not just a man, but a voice that spoke for millions. The day Zubeen Garg died, all of Assam fell silent. Offices closed, people wept in the streets, and the government declared three days of mourning. When his body returned home, over a million people flooded the streets to say goodbye to their beloved “Zubinda” — the soul of Assam.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Zubeen Garg began his musical journey in the early 1990s, a time when Assam was torn apart by violence and political unrest. The militant group ULFA was demanding a separate country, and the youth were frustrated and directionless. Amid this chaos, in 1992, Zubeen released his debut album Anamika, which became Assam’s first-ever rock album.
His soulful melodies brought hope to a generation. Anamika became an instant hit and turned Zubeen into a superstar overnight. His music spoke about love, pain, and hope — emotions that resonated deeply with the people of Assam. From fields to festivals, his songs echoed everywhere, reminding people of their culture and roots.
The Voice of a Generation
Zubeen wasn’t just a singer — he was a movement. His songs celebrated Assamese identity at a time when globalization and English dominance were taking over. By singing proudly in Assamese, he gave the youth a sense of pride and cultural confidence.
By the 2000s, Zubeen was not just a musician but a symbol of Assam’s soul. His face was everywhere — on billboards, at Bihu festivals, and in every home. Later, he reached Bollywood with hits like Ya Ali from Gangster and Dil Tu Hi Bata from Krrish 3, but fame didn’t change him. When he was at the peak of his career, Zubeen left Mumbai and returned to Assam, saying, “A king should never leave his kingdom.”
Over his lifetime, he recorded more than 38,000 songs in 40+ languages, including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Nepali. He could also play 12 musical instruments. Yet, despite this vast contribution, Zubeen was underpaid and exploited by music companies that owned the rights to his songs.
The People’s Hero
What truly set Zubeen apart was his compassion. He lived for the people — not for glamour or money. He often sat with daily wage workers, shared food with them, and helped anyone in need. Whether it was paying school fees, supporting flood victims, or donating for medical aid, he was always there.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he even offered his home in Guwahati to be used as a care center. He reportedly adopted 15 underprivileged children, including a girl named Kajoli, whom he rescued from an abusive home.
To the people of Assam, Zubeen was more than an artist — he was family. He stood with them in every crisis and gave them strength through his words and actions.
The Rebel and the Revolutionary
Zubeen was fearless. Inspired by Che Guevara, he often said, “I am a rebel, I am a fighter.” He openly criticized corruption and called out politicians from every party — BJP or Congress alike. He wasn’t afraid to challenge power and spoke boldly about what he believed was right.
A self-declared atheist, Zubeen rejected caste and religion, saying he only believed in freedom. He opposed animal sacrifices in temples and even criticized Bollywood actor Govinda for sacrificing a buffalo at the Kamakhya Temple, saying, “If you really want to please the goddess, sacrifice yourself, not an innocent animal.”
Standing Up Against Threats and Injustice
In 2013, the militant group ULFA warned Assamese singers not to perform Hindi songs during Bihu festivals. Zubeen was the only artist who defied the order. He said, “Music has no language,” and sang Hindi songs on stage despite death threats. Later, even ULFA members came to respect him.
When the CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) was introduced, Zubeen stood at the forefront of protests in Assam. His song Politics No Reba Bandhu became the anthem of the anti-CAA movement. He marched in rallies, urged protesters to stay peaceful, and criticized the government for using violence. “You can kill me,” he said, “but I will not let CAA divide Assam.”
Zubeen also fought for environmental causes. When trees were to be cut for a flyover project in Guwahati, he joined the protest and warned the government that he would start a revolution if the trees were destroyed. His activism forced the government to halt the project — proof of the power of his voice.
Why Zubeen Garg Will Always Be Remembered
In an age when most celebrities fear losing sponsorships or followers, Zubeen stood for truth, justice, and his people. He never sold his voice to power. His death united Assam across caste, class, and religion. People who had been divided by politics came together to mourn him.
He wasn’t just a singer — he was a symbol of courage, compassion, and integrity. Artists like Zubeen are rare, but they remind us what it means to be a true public figure.
Alongside legends like Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Prakash Raj, and Sonu Sood, Zubeen Garg will forever be remembered as one of India’s most fearless voices — a man who lived not for fame, but for the people.
Conclusion
Zubeen Garg’s story isn’t just about music. It’s about rebellion, humanity, and love for one’s roots. In his death, Assam lost its voice — but his songs, his courage, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
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