Staff Correspondent
Kolkata/Port Blair, May 22, 2025 – The Indian art world mourns the demise of Swapnesh Choudhury, a visionary artist and a pivotal figure in shaping the cultural landscape of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, who breathed his last today at 6 AM in Kolkata. He was 81. A proud son of Silchar, Assam, born in 1944, Mr. Choudhury’s relentless dedication single-handedly transformed the face of art in the Andaman archipelago. He leaves behind a son and a daughter, who are expected to arrive from the US for the cremation, scheduled for tomorrow.
Mr. Choudhury’s artistic journey began in his youth. After completing his matriculation in Silchar, he moved to Kolkata in 1960 to pursue his passion for art, graduating with distinction in painting from the Government College of Arts & Crafts in 1967.
His life took a significant turn in 1969 when he embarked on a new chapter in the Andaman Islands, joining the Department of Education as an Arts teacher. This move marked the beginning of his profound influence on the region’s art and culture. His prolific and influential works vividly captured the essence of the islands, depicting their pristine beaches, enigmatic waterways, vibrant marine life, and the mesmerizing colors of local birds and fishes. Beyond natural landscapes, he also delved into the primitive lifestyles of the indigenous people and the diverse flotilla that graced the horizon, thereby introducing the unique mysteries of the islands to mainstream India.
Mr.Swapnesh Choudhury was not just an artist but also a dedicated cultural ambassador. He was instrumental in establishing the Andaman Artists’ Circle, serving as a guiding light for countless aspiring artists in the region. His commitment to cultural integration was evident in his role as a representative of Andaman in prestigious organizations like the Lalit Kala Academy and Purbanchal Sanskritik Parishad, where he played a crucial role in bringing indigenous art and culture into the national mainstream. This remarkable achievement is widely credited to his unwavering efforts.
Beyond his artistic creations and advocacy, Mr. Choudhury was a profound scholar. He held a Fellowship in mural painting under the esteemed Prof. K.G. Subramanian of Viswa Bharati University. His distinguished service in the field of Art Education was recognized with a National Award conferred by the President of India. For a considerable period, he also served as the Curator of the National Memorial Cellular Jail, where he delved deep into historical and anthropological documents related to the Bay Islands. He was widely acclaimed as the author of the insightful book, ‘Cellular Jail – cells beyond cells ‘.
The passing of Swapnesh Choudhury leaves a void in the art community, particularly in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where his legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and cultural enthusiasts.
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