Tutu Bose, aged 78, was admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata after suffering a heart attack on Monday and passed away the next day.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In a heartfelt message, Prabhakaran hailed Tutu Bose as the \u201cheartbeat of Mohun Bagan\u201d and credited him for ensuring that the club remained a powerhouse through multiple generations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to a titan of Indian football, Shri Swapan Sadhan Bose. For decades, Tutu Da wasn\u2019t just an administrator; he was the heartbeat of Mohun Bagan, a man whose unwavering commitment ensured that the \u2018National Club of India\u2019 remained a powerhouse through every era,\u201d Prabhakaran wrote in a tweet on X.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Highlighting Bose\u2019s immense contribution to the sport, the former AIFF secretary said that Tutu Da played a defining role in sustaining Indian football during difficult periods and modernising the administration of the game while preserving its traditional values. \u201cTutu Da\u2019s contribution to the club was nothing short of legendary. In moments when the path forward seemed uncertain, his vision and personal investment kept the fire of the Mariners burning bright. He didn\u2019t just manage a club; he protected an institution,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Prabhakaran further described Bose as a 'visionary leader' whose passion inspired generations of football lovers across the country. \u201cHe played a pivotal role in keeping the sport relevant and thriving, even during its most challenging transitions. His love for the game acted as a catalyst, inspiring generations to stay invested in football through the toughest of times,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cHis departure leaves a void that will be incredibly difficult to fill. However, the fire of passion he ignited will continue to burn in the hearts of every football lover in the country. We must ensure that his contributions are never forgotten; they should serve as a blueprint for dedication and resilience. Rest in peace, Tutu Da. Your legacy will echo through the stands of the Maidan forever,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Born on 23 January 1948 in Howrah, West Bengal, Bose studied at St. Xavier\u2019s College and later completed his LLB from the University of Calcutta. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Tutu Bose first became portfolio holder of Mohun Bagan AC in 1989\u201390, beginning what would become one of the longest presidential tenures in Indian club football. During his tenure, he oversaw the institutional modernisation of the club and the stabilisation of finances during turbulent periods through extensive planning and a vision. He also played a pivotal role in the signing of Nigerian Chima Okorie, the club\u2019s first foreign signing in 1991. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
In June 2017, he stepped down citing health reasons, marking the end of an era. But his departure was temporary. In May 2022, he was re\u2011elected as President, demonstrating the trust and affection the club\u2019s members continued to place in him.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In April 2025, he officially retired from all positions at Mohun Bagan, calling the club 'family' and requesting to step away gracefully as a new board was being formed.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In June 2017, he stepped down citing health reasons, marking the end of an era. But his departure was temporary. In May 2022, he was re\u2011elected as President, demonstrating the trust and affection the club\u2019s members continued to place in him.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Under his leadership, Mohun Bagan remained a top contender in national tournaments, enhanced its brand value and fan engagement, and preserved its identity as a heritage club while adapting to modern football.<\/p>\r\n\r\n