Zanzeer Singh, a prominent sports journalist in the country, passed away at the age of 49 on Tuesday at the Lautoka Aspen Hospital after a prolonged illness. His younger brother, former Fiji TV journalist Ranbeer Singh, remembered him as someone who lived a joyful and social life, known for organizing gatherings and having a kind, generous nature.
Charlie Charters, a former Fiji rugby union official and sports marketing executive, praised Zanzeer’s humanity, integrity, and humor, calling him an exceptional reporter who fought to ensure his stories received coverage. Writer Jone Kalouniviti also reflected on Singh’s straightforward approach, describing him as a genuine sports journalist who possessed a great understanding of people and had a unique sense of humor.
Indra Singh, the news director at FBC, referred to Zanzeer as a legend among his colleagues, noting his unique methods for acquiring stories and willingness to help others. He expressed sorrow over the loss of a beloved figure who brought joy and taught those around him to appreciate life.
Zanzeer Singh was educated at 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 attended Swami Vivekananda College. His journalism career began with the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation as a stringer in 1997, leading to roles at Fiji Sun in 1999 and Fiji Times in 2003, where he worked for the next twenty years.
He is survived by his wife, Rita Singh, and their children, Nirvana and Siddhartha Iyer. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, with a viewing at Lautoka’s Girmit Centre followed by final rites at the Lovu crematorium at 1 pm.