Zubeen Garg’s death: Brahmaputra valley film festival 2025 postponed in memory of late singer

The 10th Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival (BVFF) has been postponed to 2026, as organizers pay tribute to the late Zubeen Garg, a beloved figure in Assamese culture, who passed away last month in Singapore. This decision reflects a deep respect for Garg's significant contributions to Assamese art and culture, and the profound impact of his loss on the community.

Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival posponed

The Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival, initially set for December 4-7, 2025, has been postponed. The organizing committee shared this news via an emotional Instagram statement, reflecting the deep impact of the loss.

It is with a heavy heart that the 10th edition of the Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival, originally scheduled for December 4–7, 2025, has been postponed to a later date in 2026. This decision comes as Assam mourns the loss of its most beloved cultural icon, Zubeen Garg, whose voice and vision defined generations. BVFF stands in solidarity with the people and the creative community, the post read.

As a festival deeply rooted in the cultural and emotional fabric of this land, we feel it is only right to pause our celebrations this year, in remembrance and respect. We are deeply grateful to our filmmakers, partners, and audience for their continued support and understanding. Refunds for all submissions will be processed in due course, the post concluded.

Zubeen Garg’s death case

Amidst the ongoing mourning for Zubeen Garg, the investigation into his passing has taken a significant turn. On Wednesday, five individuals were placed under 14-day judicial custody. Those accused include Shyamkanu Mahanta, organizer of the Northeast Festival, Zubeen's manager Siddhartha Sharma, his cousin and police officer Sandipan Garg, and his personal security officers, Nandeswar Bora and Paresh Baishya.

Following the arrival of the accused at Baksa District Jail, tensions flared as a large crowd assembled, leading to protests. Demonstrators expressed their anger by throwing stones and sandals at the police convoy, and setting fire to vehicles near the jail. Zubeen Garg, who was 52 years old, died in Singapore on September 19, 2025. Initial reports suggested a scuba diving accident, but later investigations confirmed he had drowned.