Veteran actress passes away at 88, Industry mourns
Babushahi Bureau
Kolkata (West Bengal), August 13, 2025 — The Bengali film and television industry is in mourning following the death of veteran actress Basanti Chatterjee.She passed away on 12 August at her residence in Kolkata at the age of 88, after a long battle with cancer.
A spokesperson from the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists Forum confirmed that Chatterjee’s health had been fragile for some time. Following prolonged medical treatment, doctors advised home-based nursing care, where she spent her final moments.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of veteran television actress Basanti Chatterjee. Her departure is a huge loss for our industry. My heartfelt sympathies are with her family, friends, and fans.”
Basanti Chatterjee’s illustrious career spanned over five decades. She began in theatre before making her mark in films and television. She acted in over 100 films, including memorable titles like Thagini, Manjari Opera, and Alo.
On television, she was a familiar face in popular shows such as Bhutu, Boron, and Durga Durgeshwari. Her final appearance was in the TV show Geeta LLB, during the shoot of which her health deteriorated, prompting a break from work.
Her contribution to Bengali cinema and television leaves behind a rich legacy that will be remembered by generations of fans and colleagues alike.