Renowned Indian artist and former Rajya Sabha MP Jogen Chowdhury passed away on Sunday at the age of 87, prompting condolences from West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Adhikari expressed grief over the artist’s demise, remembering his contribution to modern Indian art and his role in bringing international recognition to West Bengal’s cultural heritage. He said Chowdhury’s death had left a significant void in the state’s artistic and intellectual community.
On behalf of the state government and its people, the Chief Minister extended condolences to Chowdhury’s family, friends, associates and admirers.
Banerjee also paid tribute to the artist, describing him as a source of pride for Bengal and India and an inspiration to artists across the world. In a post on X, she recalled his tenure as a Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP from 2014 to 2020 and noted that he was conferred the Banga Bibhushan award in 2012. She said his death would leave a lasting void in the world of art and culture.
According to reports citing hospital and family sources, Chowdhury had been undergoing treatment for cancer for around 14 months. He was admitted to a Kolkata hospital after falling ill on October 16. His condition reportedly worsened due to an infection, and he was placed on ventilator support on Saturday.
Chowdhury was widely recognised for his distinctive contribution to modern Indian painting. Beyond his artistic career, he also served in public life as a nominated representative of civil society in the Rajya Sabha.
His death marks the loss of a prominent figure in India’s contemporary art landscape. Tributes from political leaders and admirers have highlighted his influence on modern art and his contribution to West Bengal’s cultural identity.
