Former Mohun Bagan President Tutu Bose Dies At The Age Of 79

Former Mohun Bagan president Swapan Sadhan Bose, known as "Tutu Babu", died following a cardiac arrest in Kolkata. He was 79. A major figure in Indian football, he had multiple health issues. He died around 11.45 pm on Tuesday at a private hospital, family sources said.

Bose is survived by sons Srinjay and Soumik. Srinjay is the current Mohun Bagan secretary. His body will be kept at the Mohun Bagan club tent on Wednesday. Fans and sports lovers can offer their last respects there. The cremation is scheduled for 4.30 pm the same day.

Bose had been under treatment for several complications before his death. His grandson Arinjoy Bose wrote on Facebook, "It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Tutu Bose." He called him "the best father and grandfather one could ever have."

Arinjoy also described him as "a remarkable administrator, and the strongest pillar of support for everyone around him. A true banyan tree in our lives." In Kolkata’s Maidan circles, "Tutu Babu" was a familiar and respected presence for many decades.

Bose served Mohun Bagan for more than three decades. He worked in several roles, including secretary and president. During this long period, his name became closely linked with the green-and-maroon club. Many associate the modern Mohun Bagan structure with his decisions.

Under his leadership, Mohun Bagan handled serious financial and administrative issues. The club also moved into a new phase with corporate partnerships. Bose supported key moves that changed the club’s model and helped keep it active in a changing football scene.

One major step was his decision to change a 100-year-old rule. Mohun Bagan earlier signed only Indian players. Under Bose, the club began hiring foreign players. This led to the arrival of Nigerian striker Chima Okorie from East Bengal, a major transfer at that time.

Okorie later became one of the most famous foreign footballers in India. Bose was also known for his election win over senior administrator Dhiren De. That result helped him gain control of Mohun Bagan and guide its football and club policies for many years.

Bose had a central role in the 2020 merger of Mohun Bagan with ATK, earlier called Atletico de Kolkata. This move created a new identity for the club in the Indian Super League. It marked another turning point in the long history of the Kolkata giants.