Kurdish artist Beytocan laughs at rumors of his death while in cancer treatment

The famous Kurdish musical artist known as Beytocan is undergoing cancer treatment in Sweden, his brother told Kurdistan 24 on Saturday, denying rumors spread online and in the media that he had died.

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The famous Kurdish musical artist known as Beytocan is undergoing cancer treatment in Sweden, his brother told Kurdistan 24 on Saturday, denying rumors spread online and in the media that he had died.

Beytocan was born Beytullah Güneri in 1955 in the town of Silvan (Farqin), located in Diyarbakir (Amed) province in Turkey's predominantly Kurdish southeast, also known as North Kurdistan. He has been living in Sweden since 1991.

“Unfortunately in some places, on websites, and television, they claimed his situation is bad,” said his brother, Adarcan. “I talked to him today, and I said, ‘They killed you and you died.’”

“He laughed, and replied, “I will not die quickly, and I am fine.

Adarcan said that he and his family are upset by the false news spread about the death of his brother.

“We are annoyed by these unfortunate reports. Please, anyone who wants to know about his situation can call us, his family. We will tell you what really is happening.”

Beytocan underwent surgery for cancer in early October and is still currently in the hospital.

The brother of Kurdish artist Beytocan speaks to Kurdistan 24. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)
The brother of Kurdish artist Beytocan speaks to Kurdistan 24. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)

“About the health situation of Beytocan, I cannot say he is fine and I can also not say he is in a bad situation,” Adarcan added. 

“He has a tumor under his tongue. It’s cancer, and a malignant cancer. It’s not good and it spreads fast.” 

“If they want to do radiation therapy, this will stop the tumor in his throat so it doesn't spread through his body. He already did five chemotherapy treatments and needs to do another 29. After 25-26 times, the doctor will tell us if his situation is bad or good.”

He also added that Beytocan is hoping to go live “in Kurdistan for the rest of his life” and be among his people and stay there until he dies.

Kurdish Affairs analyst Mutlu Civiroglu told Kurdistan 24 on Saturday that Beytocan “is a very well-liked musician among the Kurds, especially in his hometown, Amed (Diyarbakir in Turkish). His songs about Amed are well known.”

“Most of his songs are top hits and well known among the Kurds. Most of his songs are about the love for the homeland and his songs on Youtube and Facebook are the most liked. Also, many of his songs are sung by other musicians.”

He continued, “One thing that is unique about Beytocan is that he really gives himself into songs and puts a lot of emotions in his songs. I think that's one of the reasons why he's very well-liked, not only in Turkey, but also by other parts of Kurdistan.”

“For example,” he explained, “I first heard the news that he was sick from a Kurd from Rojava (Syrian Kurdistan), so he has a reputation. That’s why people are worried about his health. But the good thing is that he’s alive and receiving treatment. Hopefully, he’ll be recovering soon.”

Editing by John J. Catherine