Soroj Deb, a renowned poet and a key figure in the northern region's "Little Magazine" movement, passed away at the age of 74.

He succumbed to prostate cancer at his residence in Purbo Para, Gaibandha town, at around 1:45pm today, following a two-year battle with the disease.

His son, Joy Dev, and well-wishers confirmed his death.

The poet's body was kept at the Purbo Para Government Primary School field at 4:30pm today for people from all walks of life to pay their respects. His funeral rites was completed at Gaibandha Municipal Crematorium at 6:00pm, according to family members.

Born on March 26, 1948, in Gaibandha, Soroj Dev was the son of classical musician Ustad Upendra Nath Dev. His poetic talent emerged during his school years, and he became a driving force in the literary landscape of Gaibandha and the northern region in the 1960s.

A prolific poet, editor, and cultural organiser, he played a crucial role in promoting the "Little Magazine" culture in northern Bangladesh.

For 56 years, he edited the literary journal Shabdo, a testament to his dedication to literature. He also edited more than 150 other literary magazines, including Swojon Shobdaboli, Praneshorir Machan, Bajre Baje Benu, Lal Golaper Jonno, Shatodal, Mohona, Sangshaptak, Shatabdi, and Nandonic.

Since the 1960s, he remained an active presence in Gaibandha's literary and cultural circles and founded the cultural organisation "Surjokona."

In 1969, Soroj Dev was elected Magazine Secretary of Gaibandha College Student Union. He later studied Bengali at Rajshahi University in 1973, where he continued to establish literary and cultural organisations.

Although he started writing poetry in his school days, his collections were published later in life. His notable works include Dhobal Megher Dingulo (2006), Anonto Roddure Eso (2009), Swarochito Sukher Sotkar (2010), Swapno Shuyechelo Kuashay (2011), and Shomoy Amake Hotyar Kotha Bole Geche (2013). He also edited several anthologies, including collections of love stories by Rabindranath Tagore and Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, as well as Kobitar Joutho Khamar, Nirbachito Kobita, and Chotoder Sarat Chandra.Social and cultural organisations, along with prominent individuals, have expressed deep sorrow and condolences.