Chandidas Ganguly
Chandidas Ganguly was the father of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly and a highly respected figure in Kolkata’s business and cricket circles. He was born around 1939 and passed away on February 21, 2013, at the age of 73, following a heart attack. Chandidas ran a flourishing print business, which became one of the largest and most successful in Asia, making him one of the wealthiest businessmen in Kolkata. His business success provided Sourav and his elder brother, Snehasish, with a privileged upbringing, earning Sourav the childhood nickname “Maharaj” (meaning “Great King”). Chandidas was deeply involved in cricket administration in West Bengal. He held several senior positions in the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), including joint secretary, vice-president, and chairman of the Trustee Board. His engagement in cricket administration and his support for his sons’ sporting ambitions played a crucial role in shaping their careers. Both his sons, Snehasish and Sourav, became accomplished cricketers, with Snehasish playing first-class cricket for Bengal and Sourav going on to captain the Indian national team. Chandidas Ganguly is remembered as a supportive and influential father who provided both moral and financial backing for his sons’ cricketing journeys. His legacy is closely tied to the rise of Sourav Ganguly as one of India’s most successful cricket captains.