West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Jalpaiguri, May 29: Renowned Sarinda player and Padma Shri awardee Mangalakanta Roy passed away on Thursday night at the age of 104. The veteran folk artist breathed his last at his residence in the Dhaulaguri area of Maynaguri in North Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district. His demise has cast a deep shadow of grief across the cultural and folk music community.

Family members and local sources, the centenarian artist had been suffering from cancer for the past several months. As his physical condition deteriorated, he had been admitted to Jalpaiguri Medical College and Hospital for treatment for a few days. Later, following medical advice, he was brought back home. On Thursday night, the legendary artist passed away peacefully at his residence at the age of 104.

Mangalakanta Roy had been honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri award by the Government of India in recognition of his exceptional contribution and mastery in playing the traditional folk instrument ‘Sarinda’, which is now considered a fading musical heritage. Despite leading a very simple life, the veteran artist dedicated his entire life to preserving and promoting the folk culture of North Bengal.

With his passing, an important golden chapter in the world of folk music and traditional art has come to an end. Cultural personalities, local residents, and admirers across the region have expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the legendary Sarinda maestro.