Papon cancels the Mumbai show for Zubeen Garg; extends apology

Renowned singer and composer Papon has cancelled his upcoming Mumbai show scheduled for October 1, along with all promotions and commitments, following the sudden demise of his close friend and celebrated Assamese musician Zubeen Garg.

Zubeen, a towering figure in the Assamese and Indian music industry, passed away on September 19, leaving fans and fellow artists heartbroken. On halting his promotions, shows, and shoots, Papon said, “I sincerely apologise to all concerned for cancelling my commitments.”

As a mark of respect, Papon has decided to cancel all his professional commitments till Zubeen’s 13th-day ritual. Earlier, when he arrived in Guwahati to pay his last respects, he described Zubeen’s passing as an irreparable loss, not only for him personally but for the entire state. Zubeen Garg’s passing marks the end of an era for Assamese music, leaving a void that words can barely capture.

Papon also spoke about fast-paced investigation in Zubeen`s case

Papon also issued a request in Assamese for clarification on the current probe. The singer requested the inquiry into Garg`s death to be completed as quickly as possible so that any outstanding issues can be answered. He wrote: "I request, the investigation be fast-paced. And the answers to the questions that we are seeking, we should get soon."

After Zubeen`s sudden demise, Papon had prayed for Zubeen. "This is so shocking! The voice of a generation! Gone too soon. At a loss for words! Lost a friend. Lost a brother. A big void. Praying for a peaceful journey of his soul," he wrote on Instagram.

About Zubeen Garg`s sudden demise

Zubeen died on September 19 from an alleged drowning incident. His body was transferred to Delhi, then to Guwahati on a commercial airline. Zubeen was visiting Singapore for the Northeast India Festival.

His death rites were performed on September 23 in Assam`s Kamarkuchi village in front of hundreds of supporters, family members, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Kiren Rijiju, and other politicians. Zubeen received a gun salute at the crematorium.

Zubeen, Assam`s cultural hero, was a composer, music director, actor, and filmmaker in addition to being a singer. Throughout his three-decade career, he sang thousands of songs in Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and other Indian languages.