Former Mohun Bagan President Swapan Sadhan Bose, fondly known as Tutu Bose in Kolkata’s Maidan circles, has died after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 79.
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 11.45 pm 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 4.30 pm 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.
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.
The two Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan and East Bengal initially resisted joining the ISL structure from the I-League, it was Tutu Bose, who remained central to the club’s negotiations and strategic decisions during Indian football’s biggest transition period.
