The man who changed Indian football: Remembering Tutu Bose, ‘banyan tree’ of Mohun Bagan

Kolkata: Swapan Sadhan Bose, the former president of Mohun Bagan and a titan of Indian football administration, died late Tuesday following a cardiac arrest. He was 79.

Known affectionately as "Tutu Babu" within Kolkata’s storied Maidan sporting circles, Bose had been receiving medical care at a private local hospital for various health issues. Family sources confirmed he passed away at approximately 11:45 p.m.

Bose is survived by his two sons, Soumik and Srinjay Bose, the latter of whom currently serves as the secretary of Mohun Bagan.

On Wednesday, his mortal remains will be stationed at the Mohun Bagan club tent to allow supporters and members of the sporting community to offer their final tributes. A cremation ceremony is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. later today.

His grandson, Arinjoy Bose, expressed the family's grief in a social media tribute.

"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," he wrote.

A Legacy of Modernisation

Bose’s tenure, which spanned more than 30 years in roles including secretary and president, was instrumental in transitioning Mohun Bagan into the contemporary era of professional football. His name became inextricably linked with the "green-and-maroon" institution.

Under his guidance, the club navigated significant financial and structural hurdles. He was the primary architect behind the club’s entry into the corporate partnership era and the historic decision to integrate international talent into the squad.

In a landmark move, Bose dismantled a century-old club tradition that restricted recruitment to domestic players. This policy change paved the way for the acquisition of Nigerian forward Chima Okorie, who was signed away from arch-rivals East Bengal to become one of the most celebrated foreign athletes in Indian history.

Administrative Ascent and Integration

Bose first rose to prominence in the club's hierarchy after prevailing in a leadership contest against the veteran administrator Dhiren De.

His final major contribution to the club’s legacy occurred in 2020, when he played a decisive role in the merger between Mohun Bagan and ATK (formerly Atletico de Kolkata). The move successfully integrated the historic club into the top-tier Indian Super League, initiating a new phase in its century-long chronicle.

With inputs from PTI