Zubeen Garg controversies: From Krishna remark to slapping a minor, 5 times Assam's icon sparked outrage with his words & actions

Zubeen Garg was more than just a singer, he was an icon in Assam and the Northeast, a musician who gave people a voice and connected generations with his songs. Loved for his talent and admired for his fearless attitude, he was often called the Heartthrob of Assam.

But along with admiration came controversies. Zubeen was known for his outspoken nature, and more than once, his remarks or actions sparked outrage, debates, and even legal battles.

Here are five moments when Zubeen Garg found himself on the wrong side of public opinion:

1. The Brahmin Remark (2019)

In 2019, Zubeen invited strong criticism when he declared, “I am Brahmin, but I have snapped my ‘lagun’ (sacred thread). These Brahmins should be killed.” The comment shocked many and forced him to issue a public apology.

2. Krishna Was Not God (2024)

At a Bihu concert in April 2024, Zubeen stated that Lord Krishna was never a God but only a man. The remark led the Majuli District Satra Mahasabha to ban him from performing in their region, sparking heated reactions across Assam.

3. Insulting the Bharat Ratna

When an audio clip surfaced of Zubeen allegedly using abusive words while referring to the Bharat Ratna, the country’s highest civilian honour, criticism poured in. The clip went viral soon after the award was posthumously announced for Bhupen Hazarika, a figure Zubeen himself deeply admired. Two police complaints were lodged against him for derogatory remarks.

4. Disrespecting the National Flag (2015)

On Independence Day in 2015, Zubeen hoisted the National Flag while wearing half-pants at his home. Instead of the National Anthem, he sang another song, which many considered inappropriate for the occasion. An FIR was filed against him for allegedly insulting the flag under case number 502/15.

5. Minor Slapping Case (2013–2017)

In 2013, Zubeen reportedly slapped a minor boy, the son of advocate Arup Borbora, for smoking in public. The matter went to court, and in 2017 he was sentenced to three months of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 5,000. He was also accused of revealing the boy’s identity on television, violating child rights laws.

On 19 September 2025, the singer’s journey came to a tragic end when he passed away in Singapore following an accident. His death has left a void in Assam’s cultural and musical world. Despite the controversies, fans will always remember Zubeen Garg as the Voice of Assam, a man whose music spoke louder than his mistakes.