Govt notifies halls to mandatorily show Bengali films
The Statesman | 14 August 2025
The state government has made screening of Bengal films mandatory in cinema halls and multiplexes across Bengal.
A notification in this regard was issued by the information and cultural affairs department today.
The notification read: “In every cinema hall, and in all screens (each screen) of every multiplex situated in this state, 365 prime time shows/ screenings of Bengali films shall mandatorily be held throughout the year with at least one Bengali show per day for all 365 days of the year. Prime Time shows shall mean shows held between 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.”
The decision was taken after attacks and humiliation of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states became rampant. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee took part in rallies in the city and later in Bolpur and Jhargram to raise her voice against the attack and humiliation of the Bengal workers in other states. The situation turned from bad to worse when Amit Malviya, BJP IT cell head said Bengali is not a language and the Delhi Police mentioned Bengali as Bangladeshi language.
Minister Aroop Biswas met the actors of Bollywood last week and discussed the matter. Rituparna Sengupta and Dev attended the meeting with others.
Director Arindam Sil said: “The state government has done everything to promote Bengali cinema. Now, it is the responsibility of the directors, producers and music directors to produce and direct good Bengali feature films.”
It may be recalled that while giving away prizes to commemorate the death anniversary of Uttam Kumar, chief minister Mamata Banerjee had requested the directors to use more Bengali songs in films and telefilms. She also urged them not to show violence and instead of entertaining the audience it causes tension.