Last Updated:September 19, 2025, 18:14 IST

Singer Zubeen Garg passed away in a scuba diving accident in Singapore. His death has sparked an important conversation concerning safety measures in scuba diving.

Singer Zubeen Garg died in scuba diving accident in Singapore.

The sudden passing of Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg after a scuba diving accident in Singapore has cast a sombre light on the risks associated with adventure sports. Garg, who was in Singapore to perform at the North East Festival, was rushed to the hospital after being rescued from the sea, but tragically did not survive. While the cause of his death remains unclear, the incident has sparked conversations about the importance of safety in scuba diving, especially for first-time divers eager to explore the underwater world.

The Appeal and the Risks of Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is often seen as a gateway to a surreal, weightless world brimming with marine life. For beginners, the thrill of diving into the unknown is unmatched. However, like all adventure sports, it comes with its share of risks. The combination of physical endurance, equipment handling, and environmental challenges means divers must approach the sport with preparation and caution.

Operative Safety and Personal Responsibility

According to Sinjini Chanda, a Senior PADI Instructor with over seven years of experience and more than 250 students trained, safety is a two-fold responsibility.

“We do not know the cause of Zubeen Garg’s death. In scuba diving, two factors — operative safety and the diver’s own safety — are of utmost importance. Most internationally certified dive schools follow strict global guidelines. Diving itself is an adventure activity where the diver needs to be physically and mentally fit. Factors like smoking, drinking, heart conditions, and respiratory conditions increase the risks. Done correctly, diving is one of the safest adventure sports,” she explained.

Key Safety Measures for First-Timers

For those considering their first dive, here are some essentials to keep in mind:

• Choose Certified Schools: Always pick dive operators affiliated with international bodies like PADI or SSI. Certification ensures instructors follow global safety protocols.
• Prioritise Health Checks: Consult a doctor if you have pre-existing health conditions, especially related to the heart, lungs, or blood pressure.
• Understand the Briefing: Pay close attention during pre-dive orientations about equipment use, underwater signals, and emergency procedures.
• Don’t Skip Training Dives: Pool sessions or shallow water dives help beginners gain confidence before venturing deeper.
• Respect Personal Limits: Avoid pushing depth or time underwater beyond your training and comfort zone.

While investigations continue into Zubeen Garg’s accident, his passing is a stark reminder of why caution, preparation, and awareness are vital in scuba diving. For first-timers, the thrill of the experience can be life-changing, but only when backed by the right safety practices.