Zanzeer Singh, a well-known sports journalist in the country, passed away at the age of 49 at the Lautoka Aspen hospital on Tuesday after battling a long illness.
His younger brother, Ranbeer Singh, a former journalist at Fiji TV, expressed that Zanzeer, often referred to as Zan, lived a joyful and social life, well-known for organizing gatherings and social events. He remembered his brother as someone who possessed a generous and giving nature.
Charlie Charters, a former official in Fiji’s rugby union and sports marketing executive, praised Zanzeer as an exceptional reporter who exhibited great humanity, integrity, and humor. Charters noted that he would often direct news tips to Zanzeer during his shifts, acknowledging his skillful storytelling and ability to advocate for stories in print.
Writer Jone Kalouniviti recognized Singh as a prominent media figure from the western region, describing him as a genuine sports journalist who was adept with people. Kalouniviti acknowledged that while some might have misunderstood Zanzeer’s straightforwardness, his sense of humor, though sometimes intense, was always entertaining.
Indra Singh, the news director at FBC, referred to Zanzeer as a legend among his colleagues, highlighting his unique approach to storytelling and affirming his willingness to assist others. Indra reminisced about Zanzeer’s love for both sports and beer, stating that his lively spirit brought joy to those around him and that his influence would be dearly missed.
Zanzeer Singh attended Namaka Public School in Nadi alongside notable classmates, including former Fiji 7s rugby coach Iliesa Tanivula and Joeli Lotawa, a former Nadi and Pacific Islanders hooker. He later continued his studies at Swami Vivekananda College.
Beginning his career as a stringer for the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation in 1997, he joined Fiji Sun in 1999 and then moved to the Fiji Times in 2003, where he dedicated twenty years of his professional life.
He is survived by his wife Rita and their children, Nirvana and Siddhartha Iyer. Zanzeer’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday, with a viewing at Lautoka’s Girmit Centre prior to the final rites at Lovu crematorium at 1 pm.