Kolkata, May 13: Former Mohun Bagan President Swapan Sadhan Bose, fondly known as “Tutu Babu” in Kolkata’s Maidan circles, has died after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 79.
Bose is survived by his sons Srinjay and Soumik. Srinjay is the current Mohun Bagan secretary.
Bose, one of the most influential figures in Indian football administration, had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital here for multiple health complications. He died around 11.45pm on Tuesday, according to family sources.
His mortal remains will be kept at the Mohun Bagan club tent on Wednesday for fans and sports lovers to pay their last respects. The cremation will take place at 4.30pm later in the day.
“It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Tutu Bose. He was the best father and grandfather one could ever have, a remarkable administrator, and the strongest pillar of support for everyone around him. A true banyan tree in our lives,” his grandson Arinjoy Bose posted on Facebook.
Bose played a defining role in shaping Mohun Bagan in the modern era.
He served the club in various capacities for more than three decades, including as secretary and president, and became synonymous with the green-and-maroon club.
Under his leadership, Mohun Bagan overcame several financial and administrative challenges while also embracing transformative decisions, including the induction of foreign players and the club’s corporate partnership era.
Signing of Nigerian striker Chima Okorie, who went on to become one of the most iconic foreign footballers to play in India, also took place under his administration. Okorie was poached from East Bengal. This was after Bose changed a 100-year-old club rule of hiring only Indian players.
Bose had risen to control Mohun Bagan after defeating seasoned administrator Dhiren De.
He also played a key role in the merger of Mohun Bagan with ATK (formerly Atletico de Kolkata), ushering in a new chapter in the club’s history in 2020. (PTI)
