The directive, shared via a post on X, read: “In view of the untimely death of Late Zubeen Garg, all Inspectors of Schools/DEEO are instructed to postpone the half-yearly examination scheduled tomorrow until the cremation of the mortal remains of the legendary artist.” The state government has not yet announced revised exam dates, urging students to stay in touch with their schools for updates.

Zubeen Garg, the iconic Assamese singer, actor, and cultural figure, tragically passed away at 52 in Singapore on Friday during a yacht trip, reportedly while swimming without a life jacket. His death has sent shockwaves across Assam, with fans and admirers grieving the loss of a beloved figure whose music, including the hit “Ya Ali” and soulful Assamese folk songs, resonated with millions.

At the Garg family residence in Guwahati’s Kahilipara, Zubeen’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, is said to be inconsolable, overwhelmed by the sudden loss of her husband. Close family members report that even their pet dog, a constant companion to the couple, has been visibly distressed, refusing food and lying sorrowfully near Zubeen’s belongings. The heart-wrenching scene has struck a chord with fans, many of whom gathered outside the residence, offering floral tributes and sharing in the family’s grief.

The state of Assam is engulfed in sorrow, with tributes pouring in from all corners. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described Garg as “one of Assam’s favourite sons,” emphasizing his unmatched ability to unite people through music. The government has declared a three-day state mourning period, suspending official events while ensuring service-oriented activities continue. In Jorhat, Zubeen’s hometown, residents have demanded that his mortal remains be brought there for a final farewell, though a decision is pending.

Amid the mourning, public anger is erupting over conflicting reports surrounding Garg’s death. Initial statements from the North East India Festival organizers claimed he died during a scuba diving accident, but later reports suggested he was on a yacht trip with members of the Assamese diaspora when the tragedy occurred. Senior journalist Paragmoni Aditya has alleged a cover-up, fueling public outrage and demands for transparency. A fan, identified as Dimpul, claimed in a Facebook post that festival organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta pressured Garg before the Singapore trip, further intensifying scrutiny.

In response, Chief Minister Sarma has ordered a detailed inquiry into the circumstances of Garg’s death, with the Assam Police’s CID tasked with investigating. Multiple FIRs have been filed against festival organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta and Garg’s manager, Siddhartha Sharma, at various police stations across Assam, reflecting the public’s fury. Sarma has also coordinated with Singapore’s High Commissioner to ensure a thorough probe, with the post-mortem completed and Garg’s remains set to return to Assam soon.

As Assam grapples with this immense loss, the investigation and public sentiment underscore the profound impact Zubeen Garg had on the state’s cultural and social fabric. His legacy, spanning over three decades and 40 languages, continues to resonate as the state prepares to bid farewell to its beloved “Zubeen da.”