Zubeen Garg: The Voice of Assam and Beyond

 Introduction

Among the great voices of Indian music,   Zubeen Garg stands out as an artist whose versatility, passion, and cultural roots have made him a household name in Assam and beyond. A singer, music director, composer, actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist, Zubeen’s career is a testament to how one man can embody an entire region’s spirit while reaching national and international audiences. His contribution to Assamese culture is immeasurable, and his work in Hindi, Bengali, and other Indian languages reflects his adaptability and broad appeal.

For over three decades, Zubeen has shaped the soundscape of modern Assamese music while simultaneously leaving a mark on Bollywood and regional industries. To many, he is not just a musician but an icon, a cultural ambassador who connects generations through melody and emotion.

 Early Life and Background

Zubeen Garg was born on 18 November 1972 in Tura, Meghalaya, into an artistic family deeply rooted in music and literature. His father, Mohini Mohan Garg, was a well-known tabla player, while his mother, the late Ily Borthakur, was a singer and writer. His family’s rich cultural background naturally introduced Zubeen to the world of rhythms, melodies, and storytelling.

He was named after the famous composer  Zubin Mehta, reflecting his family’s early belief in his musical destiny. His sister, the late Jonkey Borthakur, was also a talented singer who left a significant impact on the Assamese music industry before her untimely passing. Her influence and memory have continued to inspire Zubeen throughout his journey.

Zubeen’s education began in Assam, but even during his school years, his inclination towards music overshadowed everything else. He learned to play several instruments, including tabla, dhol, guitar, and drums. This multi-instrumental ability would later give him an edge as a composer and performer.

 Musical Journey in Assam

Zubeen Garg began his professional career in the early 1990s, at a time when Assamese modern songs were undergoing a transformation. His first album “Anamika” (1992) was a turning point in Assamese music, introducing a fresh sound that blended modernity with cultural identity. Songs like “Anamika” and “Kene Kene” became instant classics, giving him recognition across the state.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, he released numerous Assamese albums, including:

    Maya

    Asha

    Paakhi

    Rangdhali

    Mone Mur

These albums redefined Assamese contemporary music. His unique style—mixing folk, Western, and Indian classical elements—captured the imagination of the youth. His songs carried both romance and rebellion, deeply resonating with audiences who found in Zubeen a voice for their emotions and aspirations.

He also became known for lending his voice to Bihu songs, devotional songs, and Assamese film soundtracks. By the late 1990s, he was already a star, not just a singer but also a trendsetter who influenced the fashion, attitudes, and tastes of the Assamese youth.

Bollywood Breakthrough

While Zubeen was already a sensation in Assam, his entry into Bollywood brought him nationwide recognition. His breakthrough came with the iconic song “Ya Ali” from the movie 'Gangster' (2006). The song, composed by Pritam, became a chartbuster across India and the Middle East, making Zubeen a household name.

“Ya Ali” showcased his ability to blend pain, passion, and power in his voice, making it unforgettable. It remains one of the most celebrated Hindi songs of the 2000s. Following its success, Zubeen sang for several Bollywood movies, including:

 Faltu

 Chocolate

 Krrish

 Saaya

Strings – Bound by Faith

Although he did not pursue Bollywood with the same consistency as some playback singers, his distinct voice ensured that every contribution was remembered. Unlike many singers who fade after one hit, Zubeen maintained relevance by staying true to his roots in Assam while occasionally shining in Bollywood.

 Work in Other Regional Languages

Zubeen’s versatility is evident in his ability to sing in multiple languages. Beyond Assamese and Hindi, he has recorded in Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, Marathi, Nepali, and Kannada, making him a truly pan-Indian artist.

In Bengali music, he has enjoyed tremendous success, especially with romantic songs that resonate with audiences in West Bengal and Bangladesh. Albums like Shrestha Zubeen Garg and numerous film songs made him equally beloved among Bengali listeners.

His ability to adapt to different linguistic and cultural contexts highlights his sensitivity as a musician and his deep respect for diverse traditions.

Acting and Filmmaking

Zubeen Garg is not only a musician but also an actor, scriptwriter, and director. He has acted in several Assamese and Bengali films, often playing characters that connect with the common man. Some of his noted films include:

 Mon Jai

 Dinabandhu

 Mission China (which he also directed and   produced)

 Kanchanjangha

His 2017 Assamese film “Mission China” was a blockbuster, breaking box-office records in Assam. The film’s success was not just cinematic but cultural, proving that Assamese films could compete with larger industries when backed by good story telling and music.

Social Activism and Philanthropy

Zubeen is deeply connected with the people of Assam, and his social activism reflects this bond. He has often used his music and public presence to raise awareness about social and political issues.

He has been vocal about the anti-CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) protests in Assam, performing protest songs and standing with the people during demonstrations. His courage to use his platform for political expression has made him a symbol of resistance and people’s voice.

Beyond politics, he has supported charitable causes, including flood relief efforts in Assam, promoting education, and helping underprivileged artists. His humanitarian work often goes unnoticed compared to his music, but it underscores his belief in giving back to society.

 Personal Life

Zubeen married Garima saikia  Garge, a fashion designer and writer. The couple is admired for their strong relationship and shared interest in arts and culture. Despite his celebrity status, Zubeen remains approachable and deeply connected to his fans. His humility and accessibility have made him not just a star but also someone people feel personally close to.

Influence and Legacy in Assamese Culture

Zubeen Garg is more than a musician; he is a cultural phenomenon in Assam. His contribution can be summarized in several key aspects:

1. Reviving Assamese Modern Songs: Through his albums, he kept Assamese contemporary music relevant in an era dominated by Bollywood and Western influences.

2. Promoting Assamese Cinema: With films like Mission China, he proved Assamese cinema’s potential to attract mass audiences.

3. Cultural Identity: His music often blends Assamese folk traditions with modern sounds, giving the youth a sense of pride in their cultural identity.

4. Mentorship: He has inspired a new generation of Assamese singers and musicians, many of whom grew up idolizing him.

Awards and Recognition

Over the years, Zubeen Garg has received numerous awards, both for his contributions to Assamese music and his work in Bollywood. Some highlights include:

Global Indian Music Award (GIMA) for “Ya Ali.”

 Prag Cine Awards (multiple times) for his contribution to Assamese cinema.

 Honors from Assamese cultural organizations worldwide for his role as a cultural ambassador.

While awards acknowledge his talent, the true measure of his success is the undying love of millions of fans who sing his songs at gatherings, weddings, festivals, and protests alike.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many artists, Zubeen’s journey has not been free from challenges. His outspoken nature has sometimes landed him in controversy, especially regarding politics and social issues. However, his willingness to speak his mind has also strengthened his image as an honest and fearless personality.

He has also faced personal struggles, including coping with the tragic loss of his sister Jonkey Borthakur. Yet, his resilience in channeling personal pain into creativity has made his art even more profound.

Global Reach

Assamese diaspora communities in the USA, UK, Middle East, and other parts of the world often invite Zubeen for concerts. His live performances, marked by boundless energy and emotional connection, have given Assamese people abroad a taste of home.

Songs like “Ya Ali” and his Bengali hits have also earned him international fans, proving that his voice transcends boundaries of language and geography.

 The Ever-Evolving Artist

Even after decades in the industry, Zubeen shows no sign of slowing down. He continues to release new Assamese songs, experiment with styles, and perform at concerts with the same youthful energy that first made him a star.

He is not afraid to adapt—whether it’s incorporating rap, EDM, or fusion elements into his music—while staying true to Assamese roots. This adaptability ensures that he remains relevant to younger generations while retaining his loyal fan base.

 Conclusion

Zubeen Garg’s life and career exemplify the power of music as a unifying force. From the hills of Assam to Bollywood stages and international arenas, his journey is one of passion, perseverance, and profound cultural impact.

He is not just a singer but a symbol of Assamese pride, a cultural bridge, and an artist whose voice speaks to love, loss, hope, and resistance.

At nearly three decades into his career, Zubeen continues to inspire millions, reminding us that music is not just entertainment—it is identity, emotion, and revolution. His legacy will endure as long as people find solace and strength in his songs.