Noted Bengali folk singer Swagato Dey, best known for rendition of cherished classics such as “Moyna Cholat Cholat” and “Sona Bondhu Re”, has passed away following a cerebral stroke. His demise marks the end of a vibrant musical journey that deeply resonated with audiences across both Bengals.
According to family sources, Dey suffered a cerebral stroke on Monday. Despite receiving intensive medical treatment, his condition deteriorated, and he breathed his last on Thursday.
He is survived by his wife, Soma Indu Dey, his daughter, Shayeri Dey, and his son, Sangrang Dey.
News of Dey’s passing has cast a pall of gloom across the cultural sphere, with prominent artists expressing their sorrow on social media:
Jojo Mukherjee: “Rest well among the stars.”
Raghab Chatterjee: “Farewell, Swagato. We have lost an extraordinary artist. Much love.”
Speaking to local media, singer Jojo Mukherjee revealed that Dey had suffered a stroke a few months prior but had recovered sufficiently to return home. However, after suffering two consecutive strokes recently, he was placed on ventilator support on Tuesday before passing away during treatment.
A resident of Nabapally in Barasat, West Bengal, Dey earned widespread acclaim for his mastery over various traditional genres, including Bhatiyali. His hits remain timeless staples in Bengali folk music.
Following his passing, Dey’s son, Sangrang Dey, shared a poignant note on social media, revealing that while a cerebral stroke was the immediate cause of death, his father had long struggled with depression stemming from shifts in the music industry and diminishing performance opportunities.
“My father was never interested in chasing trends or producing content just because it was popular,” Sangrang wrote, recalling how he often urged his father to adapt to modern formats alongside the family.
Ending his tribute with an earnest plea on mental health awareness, Sangrang urged people to check on their loved ones and encouraged anyone experiencing depression or anxiety to seek professional help or confide in friends.
