Poet Soumitra Deb Passes Away

The literary world mourns the passing of Soumitra Deb, a celebrated poet and journalist whose words resonated through the nineties and the dawn of the new millennium. News of his demise has left a void in the hearts of those who admired his insightful poetry, compelling essays, and captivating travelogues.

Soumitra Deb, affectionately known as Tito, breathed his last, leaving behind a rich tapestry of work that spanned over two dozen published books. His verses often captured the nuances of life, love, and the human condition, earning him widespread recognition as a significant voice in contemporary Bengali literature. Beyond his poetic prowess, Deb also lent his sharp intellect and dedication to the world of journalism, having served as the former Assistant Editor of the Daily Manabzamin and the founder and Editor of RedTimes. His contributions to both fields have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

The journey home for Soumitra is now a final one. His mortal remains are being carried to his beloved birthplace, Moulvibazar, where his final rites will be performed. In this time of profound sorrow, his family – his wife, his son, and his cherished relatives – grapple with the absence of a man whose words painted worlds and whose presence enriched their lives.

Journalist Anhar Ahmad Samshad shared the somber news, revealing that Soumitra had been bravely battling asthma and respiratory ailments. He breathed his last on Tuesday, April 15th, in a hospital in Dhaka in the morning.

Despite his struggles, his spirit and his passion for the written word remained undimmed.

The passing of Soumitra Deb is not just the loss of an individual; it is the silencing of a unique voice, the closing of a chapter in Bengali literature and journalism. His words, however, will continue to echo, his poems will continue to move, and his legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched with his art. The literary fraternity and his countless admirers join his family in this moment of grief, remembering a man who gifted the world with the beauty and power of his words.