Indian Idol 16 Pays Tribute to Zubeen Garg Before Premiere

The upcoming season of Indian Idol, set to premiere on October 18, 2025, will honor the legacy of the late singer Zubeen Garg. The popular singing reality show is not only a platform for emerging talent but also serves to commemorate the influential figures in Indian music. A recently released behind-the-scenes video has captured the emotional tribute performed by judges Shreya Ghoshal, Vishal Dadlani, and Badshah, who celebrated Garg’s contributions with heartfelt renditions of his songs.

Zubeen Garg, renowned for his powerful voice and versatility across Assamese, Hindi, and Bengali music, passed away in Singapore on September 19, 2025. His legacy as a beloved artist continues to resonate with fans, and Indian Idol 16 aims to keep his memory alive through this tribute. In the video, a contestant from Assam, Garg’s home state, joins the judges to perform the iconic song “Mayabini,” followed by the soulful “Jaane Kya Chaahe Mann Baawra.”

Celebrating a Musical Icon

Vishal Dadlani expressed deep admiration for Garg, stating, “It’s amazing—Assam is one of the most musical places. Zubeen was born and brought up there, and he’s one of the biggest stars. As an Assamese, it’s not a small thing losing Zubeen, but Zubeen was one of the greatest of all time. Zubeen forever.” This emotional tribute highlights not only Garg’s musical brilliance but also the profound impact his work has had on his audience.

The tribute aligns with the season’s theme, “Yaadon Ki Playlist,” which focuses on celebrating memorable melodies while introducing new voices to the nation. The show aims to create a connection between emerging talent and the rich musical heritage of India, ensuring that the sounds of legendary artists like Garg continue to inspire future generations.

Indian Idol 16 is set to premiere on Sony Entertainment Television, promising an exciting season filled with both nostalgia and fresh talent. As anticipation builds for the show, fans are eager to witness how the tribute to Zubeen Garg will unfold and the new talent that will emerge in this celebrated series.

In a world where music often serves as a bridge between generations, Indian Idol 16 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of artists like Zubeen Garg. The emotional connection his songs continue to foster among audiences is a reminder of the power of music in bringing people together.