Zanzeer Singh, a prominent sports journalist in the country, passed away at the age of 49 on Tuesday at Lautoka Aspen Hospital after a prolonged illness.
His younger brother, former Fiji TV journalist Ranbeer Singh, remarked on Zanzeer’s lively and sociable nature, noting that he was well-known for hosting social gatherings and had a generous spirit.
Charlie Charters, a former Fiji rugby union official and sports marketing executive, remembered Zanzeer as an exceptional reporter with great humanity, integrity, and humor. Charters often directed news tips his way, appreciating Singh’s talent for crafting compelling stories and advocating for coverage in the newspaper.
Writer Jone Kalouniviti described Singh as a genuine media professional from the western region, praising his rapport with people. Although some may have misunderstood his straightforwardness, Kalouniviti found Zanzeer’s high-strung sense of humor to be quite entertaining.
Indra Singh, FBC news director, referred to Zanzeer as a legend among colleagues and admired his unique approach to storytelling. He highlighted Zanzeer’s willingness to help others, his love for sports, and his fondness for beer, stating that Zanzeer’s presence brought joy and a lesson on living life fully. He extended condolences to the family, emphasizing that Zanzeer would always be remembered.
Zanzeer Singh attended Namaka Public School in Nadi, where he was classmates with former Fiji 7s rugby coach Iliesa Tanivula and former Nadi and Pacific Islanders hooker Joeli Lotawa. He later studied at Swami Vivekananda College.
He began his career at the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation as a stringer in 1997, moved to Fiji Sun in 1999, and then spent two decades at the Fiji Times starting in 2003.
He is survived by his wife, Rita Singh, and their children, Nirvana and Siddhartha Iyer. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, with viewing taking place at Lautoka’s Girmit Centre before the final rites at Lovu crematorium at 1 pm.