KOLKATA, May 13 -- In West Bengal, one does not even need to watch Bengali films to be aware of the internal politics of the industry.
Until a few years ago, most conflicts were resolved behind closed doors, but in recent months the turmoil has spilled out into the open. From shootings being halted abruptly and films facing release bans allegedly imposed by the Federation to actors and directors being boycotted, the Tollywood industry has made headlines more for controversies than for cinema itself.
Now, with the new Bengal government in power, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari appears determined to address the alleged disorder within Tollywood.
On Wednesday, he held a special meeting at Nabanna to discuss corruption and chaos in the Bengali film industry. Among those present were BJP MLAs Rupa Ganguly, Rudranil Ghosh and Hiran Chatterjee. Papiya Adhikari was also expected to attend, but sources said she could not make it due to her oath-taking ceremony at the Assembly.
In an interview with Millennium Post, actor-turned-BJP MLA Rudranil Ghosh alleged that the Federation's unfair practices had severely damaged the Bengali film industry. The MLAs have reportedly instructed senior officials and the secretary of the culture department to convene a meeting soon to address the ongoing disorder. The chief minister has also made it clear that bullying and extortion will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Meanwhile, the Artists' Forum on Wednesday launched a new initiative for members of the Bengali entertainment industry with the introduction of the "Uttam Suvidha Card." Through this special card, Tollywood artistes will be able to avail a range of exclusive benefits and services at branches of Frank Ross Pharmacy.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.