The Bengali folk music community is mourning the loss of popular folk singer Swagato Dey, who passed away on Thursday (6 August) after suffering a cerebral stroke.
He had been undergoing treatment for several days before breathing his last.
According to family sources, the Indian Bengali singer suffered a sudden cerebral stroke on Monday (3 August).
He was rushed to hospital, where doctors made every effort to save him, but he did not recover.
Swagato Dey won the hearts of audiences with his soulful renditions of Bengali folk songs.
He was best known for popular tracks such as “Moyna Chholat Chholat” and “Sona Bondhu Re”, which earned him widespread recognition.
Through his music, he also helped introduce Bengali folk songs to a new generation of listeners.
News of his death prompted an outpouring of grief across social media from fellow artistes, actors and fans.
Singer Jojo paid tribute on Facebook, writing: “Rest in peace among the stars, Swagatoda. Om Shanti.”
Actress Sudipta Chakraborty also remembered the late singer, saying the news brought back many childhood memories.
“I still can’t believe Swagatoda is no longer with us,” she wrote.
Folk singer Deb Chowdhury described the loss as a major blow to Bengali folk music.
“Swagato was one of our contemporaries. I still can’t come to terms with the news. This is a great loss for Bengali folk music,” he said.
Artists and members of the cultural community believe Swagato Dey’s passing has created an irreplaceable void in the world of Bengali folk music, where his voice and contributions will be remembered for years to come.
