The Indian music community has been plunged into shock following the brutal murder of esteemed vocalist Anita Ghosh. The 65-year-old artist was discovered dead on Monday, 19 January 2026, at her residence in the Parnashree area of Behala, Kolkata. Investigations reveal a harrowing tale of domestic violence, with the singer allegedly stabbed repeatedly by a member of her household staff.
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A Savage Assault Over Financial Arrears
Anita Ghosh lived in the Priyadarshini Apartments on Becharam Chatterjee Road with her husband, Arup Ghosh, who is currently battling advanced dementia. Due to his medical condition, the couple employed a small team of domestic workers. According to the Kolkata Police, a dispute erupted on Monday morning regarding unpaid wages.
The primary accused, a domestic helper identified as Sanju Sarkar, reportedly demanded his outstanding dues. When Mrs Ghosh explained she was unable to pay at that moment, the situation escalated into a frenzied attack. Sanju allegedly used a sharp kitchen knife to inflict multiple wounds to the singer’s face and abdomen.
Case Profile: The Parnashree Homicide
| Key Detail | Data Point |
| Victim Name | Anita Ghosh (65) |
| Location | Becharam Chatterjee Road, Behala |
| Date of Crime | 19 January 2026 |
| Nature of Attack | Multiple stab wounds with a sharp weapon |
| Primary Suspect | Sanju Sarkar (Household assistant) |
| Secondary Theft | Gold ornaments and cash stolen from cupboards |
Theft and Apprehension
The brutality of the crime was compounded by a cold-blooded robbery. Police reports indicate that once Anita Ghosh collapsed and lost consciousness, the assailant proceeded to strip the gold jewellery from her body. He then reportedly broke into the apartment’s wardrobes to steal a significant amount of cash before attempting to flee.
Following the discovery of the body, the Parnashree police swiftly detained two domestic helpers and a cook for questioning. During a rigorous interrogation, Sanju Sarkar reportedly confessed to the murder. Authorities are now verifying if he acted alone or if there was any premeditated conspiracy involving the other staff members.
A Distingished Musical Career
Anita Ghosh was a prominent name in the Bengali cultural landscape, particularly revered for her long-standing association with Doordarshan and Akashvani (All India Radio). As a regular performer on these national platforms, she helped preserve the tradition of Bengali music for a generation of listeners.
Her tragic end highlights the growing vulnerability of elderly residents in metropolitan areas who rely on domestic help. While her son lives nearby in another Behala apartment, the fact that such a violent act occurred within the supposed safety of her home has left the neighbourhood in a state of profound anxiety.