My Journey with Bengal Is Far from Over: Ex-Governor C. V. Ananda Bose

Agencies, March 12, 2026, Kolkata: Former West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose on Wednesday described the state as his “second home” and expressed that, though his official tenure has ended, his bond with Bengal would continue. In an open letter to the people, Bose conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the warmth and support he received, emphasizing that his journey with the state was “far from over.”

“Though my term has come to a close, my journey in West Bengal is far from over. I shall continue to be associated with West Bengal — my second home — as its integral part,” he wrote.

Reflecting on his three-year tenure, Bose shared that he had travelled extensively across West Bengal, engaging with people from all walks of life.

“Over the past three years, I have had the occasion to tour the length and breadth of the state and interact with people. I shared meals with people in their thatched huts, read with young scholars, and interacted with learned men and women,” he said.

The former governor fondly recalled personal moments and human connections that left a lasting impression.

“I remember my sister’s embrace, that little boy’s pat on my back, that youngster’s firm handshake, and the powerful message conveyed by a distant raised hand,” Bose said.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Bose reflected on his deep connection with Bengal:

“Several decades back, Mahatma Gandhi had said, 'I am not able to leave Bengal, and Bengal will not let me go'. Today I share that feeling,” he wrote.

He also cited a poignant poem by Rabindranath Tagore, highlighting his experiences across the state:

“Leave this chanting and singing and telling of beads. He is there where the tiller is tilling the hard ground and where the pathmaker is breaking stones,” he said, quoting Tagore.

Expressing confidence in the people of Bengal, Bose stated: “I am sure my brothers and sisters of Bengal will reach great heights, and I shall, in my humble way, contribute to that.”

As he bid farewell to Lok Bhavan, Kolkata, Bose extended his heartfelt gratitude once more: “As my innings in Lok Bhavan, Kolkata, draws to a close, may I once again express my heartfelt gratitude to you for the support and consideration extended to me.”

He concluded with a prayer for the prosperity and well-being of the state: “May Bengal reach glorious heights in the days to come. Let there be prosperity and good health for all. May Ma Durga protect my people. Vande Mataram.”

Bose had served as West Bengal’s governor since November 2022 but resigned on March 5, nearly 18 months before the completion of his term. He has been succeeded by R. N. Ravi, who previously served as the governor of Tamil Nadu.