Synthesis and spectroscopic investigation of a novel solvatochromic dye

► A fluorescent dye has been synthesised and studied in various media. ► Fluorescence in homogeneous solvents is sensitive towards the environmental effects. ► In presence of H+ ions the dye exists in two tautomeric forms at equilibrium. ► Anisotropy studies provide values of local dielectric constant and viscosity. ► Binding of the dye in β-CD nanocavity has been studied.