Beloved actor Biplab Dasgupta died on Friday, April 24 at the age of 75. The star had been struggling with an autoimmune problem of the nervous system for the past 18 months. He had been admitted to private hospitals several times, but had been undergoing treatment at home for the last three months. His wife Ruma Dasgupta revealed she had fed him breakfast that morning but while giving him a sponge bath, he suddenly felt sick. It transpired he was having a heart attack and was en route to hospital when he died at around 12.30pm.

Biplob had a roundabout entry into the world of showbusiness. He began his career as a school teacher after completing his master's degree in English from Jadavpur University. He later became established in the advertising world and as a voice-over artist. He only entered the film industry in 2004 with his debut movie Shadows of Time, but he quickly became a popular big screen star.

He appeared in numerous successful films such as Feluda, Baishe Shrawan Devtar Gras and Gumnami. The star was also hugely popular as a speaker at various events, both in his own country and abroad.

Amongst those paying tribute was actress and acting coach Sohag Sen, who expressed her shock and grief. "I had heard that he was ill, but suddenly... it feels very bad to hear this.

"Look, Biplob Dasgupta was great as an artist, it goes without saying. I have never worked with him but I have seen several of his works on screen. I liked him a lot. He had a beautiful voice, a chubby, clear pronunciation. I have heard that he used to read English news at one time. We were not very close to each other, but as I said, I liked his work as an artist quite a lot.

"Another thing, every time I met him at events, I felt his politeness while talking to him. It was nice to think that there is someone in Kolkata whose Bengali and English pronunciation are both so perfect," she said.

Over on Facebook, fans shared their distress at learning the sad news. "Saddened to hear about the demise of veteran actor #BiplabDasgupta... Rest in Peace. Deep condolences to his family," one wrote.

Another added: "The year was 2016. I started my career as an actor with the blessings of Snehasish Chakraborty as a Negative Lead for the television serial Bene bou. Where I met Biplab Dasgupta da for the 1st time as a Co-actor, learnt a lot from you Biplob da especially how to treat your juniors. you have always treated me with utmost care whenever we met.. Thank you for everything, till we meet again.. OM Shanti."

A third chimed in: "Great loss for the industry ..once a nalandite and teacher at NN .. condolences sir .. Biplab Dasgupta." A fourth shared: "Om Shanti. Shared the same stage with you as an institutional teacher, but in acting you was the real teacher. RIP #biplabdasgupta."

Meanwhile a fifth lamented: "...He was not only an inspiring educator but also a true role model who lived life on his own terms. His guidance, warmth, and dedication have left an everlasting mark on countless students and colleagues. His loss is deeply felt, but his values, teachings, and memories will continue to inspire us. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in eternal peace."

Fellow actor Sujoy Prasad Chatterjee confirmed his death. Another actor Joyjit Banerjee also shared the news on social media.

As soon as the news came out, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Rupanjana Mitra and many others expressed their condolences. It is learned that Dasgupta had been ill for one and a half years. The body of the late actor will be brought to Tollygunge Technician Studio from there at 5:15 pm on Friday. According to reports, many celebrities from Teledunia and Cinedunia will be present there to pay their last respects to the artist today.