Concerns are mounting over the health of Bekoto, a living legend of Malagasy culture and music and a key member of the group Mahaleo. Three years after being the victim of a violent assault in Antsirabe, the artist is experiencing a further decline in his health. His son, Popoly, explains: “Several attempts at treatment have been undertaken since 2023 at the HJRA (Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona Hospital) with the utmost discretion. However, his current condition requires in-depth examinations and hospitalization to precisely determine the illness he is suffering from.”
According to Popoly, the artist’s health issues stem from an assault in 2023, during which he was struck on the head with a piece of wood. Since that incident, his family has tried to treat him discreetly for nearly three years. Despite these efforts, his condition has gradually deteriorated. Today, Bekoto appears increasingly fatigued, and his health is causing serious concern. A trip abroad is being considered in November to continue examinations and undergo necessary treatments.
This assault was also mentioned by Dama during a sold-out concert on October 17 at Le Millénaire in Paris, as part of the Disk Jokey Malagasy de France (DMF) event. In a video shared by the official Gasy Dispo page, he recounted that Bekoto was found with head injuries about thirty minutes after he went missing while walking in his neighborhood. Two individuals reportedly struck him with wood before stealing his phone and the money he had on him. The artist, however, did not recognize his attackers.
Despite his fragile health, Bekoto continues to accompany Mahaleo and the Taranaka on their European tour. Titled “Revy Mahaleo – Fihavanana tsy ravan’ny taona,” the tour continues until December, with stops across Europe to meet the Malagasy diaspora and fans of Malagasy music. This presence reflects the solidarity of his fellow performers, who wish to avoid leaving him alone in Madagascar during this difficult period. “What we wish for, in addition to his recovery, is not to leave him alone in Madagascar,” Dama explained.
Faced with the high cost of medical care abroad, the family highlights the difficulties artists can face when their health requires hospitalization, especially overseas, despite their fame. During this ordeal, Popoly wishes to express his gratitude to those who have already mobilized to support his father. “We thank everyone who has helped us immensely,” he emphasized. Meanwhile, thanks are also extended to the Ministry of Communication and Culture for its support of Bekoto.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-31 05:39:09 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/mahaleo-letat-de-sante-de-bekoto.html