Renowned folk singer and freedom fighter of 1971, Maloy Kumar Ganguly, has passed away at the age of 80. According to tabla maestro Pallab Sanyal, Ganguly died yesterday at 9:20 pm while receiving treatment at the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh in Dhaka.
He had been suffering from long-standing heart and lung complications. His body was placed in the cold storage of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases at 2 am. Ganguly’s only daughter currently resides in Australia; arrangements for his final rites will be finalised upon her return later tonight.
Ganguly’s contribution to the nation began early in life. During the 1971 Liberation War, he travelled to Kolkata and joined the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra. There, he lent his voice solo to the iconic patriotic song “Ore O Bangali, ar kotokal thakbi ghumete hoya bhibhor”, penned and composed by S.M. Abdul Gani Bokhari, which inspired countless freedom fighters.
Tributes have poured in following his death. Fellow 1971 radio artist Timir Nandi posted on Facebook:
“We are losing our heroes day by day. This void cannot be filled. Wherever you are, may you rest in peace, Maloyda. Your contribution to our country will remain forever unforgettable.”
Ganguly’s artistic talent extended beyond patriotic songs. He captivated audiences with his playback singing in Bengali cinema. Notably, in the film “Putro Bodhu”, his rendition of “Guru Upay Bolo Na” left a lasting impression, accompanied on screen by the late actor Probir Mitra. His voice can also be heard in several other films, including “Amar Mon To Bose Na”.
In addition to singing, he composed the acclaimed song “Jodi Raat Pohale Shona Jet, Bangabandhu More Nai”, written by Hasan Matiur Rahman. This composition was later popularised by the legendary Sabina Yasmin, further cementing Ganguly’s musical legacy.
Born in 1946 in Mozzafarpur, Kendua, Netrokona, Maloy Kumar Ganguly’s life was a testament to the enduring power of music and patriotic commitment. His contributions to the cultural and historical fabric of Bangladesh remain indelible.
Key Life and Career Highlights:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maloy Kumar Ganguly |
| Birth | 1946, Mozzafarpur, Kendua, Netrokona |
| Death | 2026, Dhaka, National Heart Foundation |
| Age | 80 years |
| Profession | Folk Singer, Composer, 1971 Radio Artist |
| Notable Patriotic Songs | “Ore O Bangali…”, “Jodi Raat Pohale Shona Jet…” |
| Film Songs | “Guru Upay Bolo Na” (Putro Bodhu), “Amar Mon To Bose Na” |
| Legacy | Iconic voice of Liberation War, Bengali folk and film music |
Maloy Kumar Ganguly’s passing marks a profound loss for Bangladesh’s cultural and musical heritage, yet his songs and artistic legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.