Renowned Indian painter and former Rajya Sabha MP Jogen Chowdhury passed away at the age of 87 at a private hospital in Kolkata on Sunday morning, October 25, 2026. He had been undergoing treatment for a rare form of blood cancer and developed additional health complications during his prolonged illness.
According to hospital information reported by news agencies, Chowdhury had been battling myeloproliferative neoplasm, a rare blood cancer, for around 14 months and was receiving chemotherapy. He was admitted to the hospital on October 16 after his health deteriorated. His condition subsequently worsened following a urinary tract infection and other complications, requiring ventilator support.
His death marks a significant loss for India’s artistic and cultural community, where he was widely respected for his distinctive visual language and lasting contribution to contemporary Indian painting.
Who Was Jogen Chowdhury?
Born on February 16, 1939, in Faridpur, in present-day Bangladesh, Jogen Chowdhury became one of the most influential figures in modern Indian art. His early life was shaped by the Partition, after which his family moved to Kolkata.
He studied at the Government College of Art and Craft in Kolkata, graduating in 1960. His artistic journey later took him to Paris in 1965, where he continued his studies and explored European artistic traditions.
Over the decades, Chowdhury developed a distinctive style known for expressive lines, textured forms and striking depictions of the human figure. His paintings often explored human emotions, social realities and the complexities of everyday life.
A Distinguished Career in Indian Art
Chowdhury’s contribution to Indian art extended well beyond his paintings. He worked as an art teacher, served as a designer for the Handloom Board and later became associated with the art gallery at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
He also served as a professor of painting at Kala Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, influencing generations of aspiring artists.
His works earned recognition in India and internationally, establishing him as a major voice in modern Indian art. His ability to combine traditional visual influences with a contemporary artistic approach became a defining feature of his career.
Jogen Chowdhury’s Political Journey
Alongside his artistic achievements, Chowdhury also participated in public life. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2014 as a Trinamool Congress member representing West Bengal and served until 2020.
His parliamentary career reflected his engagement with cultural and public affairs beyond the studio. Despite his political responsibilities, he remained closely associated with the Indian art world.
Tributes Pour In After His Death
Chowdhury’s passing has prompted tributes from political leaders, fellow artists and members of the cultural community. His work and influence have been remembered as an important part of Bengal’s artistic heritage and India’s modern art movement.
His distinctive paintings, decades of creative work and contribution to art education are expected to remain an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.
Jogen Chowdhury’s death at 87 marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Indian art, but his artistic legacy will continuethrough the works he created and the artists he inspired.
