Bengali musician & lyricist Pratul Mukherjee passes away at 83

Legendary Bengali musician and lyricist Pratul Mukherjee passed away at the age of 83 in Kolkata’s SSKM Hospital on Saturday morning. The artist had been suffering from age-related ailments for a long time and was undergoing treatment at the hospital. His demise has left the music world in deep sorrow.

Pratul Mukherjee, best known for his timeless song ‘Ami Banglar Gaan Gai’, was one of Bengal’s most cherished musical figures. Born in undivided East Bengal, he later migrated to India and became a prominent voice in Bengali music. Apart from composing and singing, he also contributed as a background artist in Bengali films, including Gonsai Baganer Bhoot.

His health had been deteriorating for several weeks, prompting his admission to the main block of SSKM Hospital. A special medical board of doctors was assigned to monitor his condition. Recently, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited him in the hospital, showing her deep respect for the veteran artist.

Following the news of his passing, several political leaders, including Mayor Firhad Hakim, Minister Arup Biswas, and Minister Indranil Sen, rushed to the hospital to pay their last respects. CM Mamata Banerjee expressed her grief, calling his death a “personal loss for West Bengal.” Minister Arup Biswas remarked that “Pratul Da’s songs are immortal and will continue to inspire generations.”

Apart from ‘Ami Banglar Gaan Gai’, his songs ‘Dinga Bhasao Sagare’ and several others remain fan favorites. Known for his poetic lyrics and deep connection to Bengali culture, Pratul Mukherjee was a true legend of Bengali folk and protest music. His legacy will live on through his melodies, and his contributions to the Bengali art world remain unparalleled.