KOLKATA, Aug. 17 -- After months of turmoil, the cloud of uncertainty hanging over Tollywood, over technicians' issues, bans, lack of work and irregular shooting schedules, may finally be lifting. On October 31 and November 1, the much-awaited elections of the Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India (FCTWEI) and the various guilds representing the Bengali film industry will be held.
During the previous TMC regime, the Federation was headed by Swarup Biswas, brother of TMC minister Aroop Biswas. Actors, filmmakers and technicians who allegedly did not toe the line were reportedly denied work, while several complaints were also raised over the alleged banning of artistes. Several filmmakers even approached the courts against the Federation's functioning under Swarup.
On Monday, however, there was a sense of optimism among Bengali technicians and members of the various guilds. In the presence of veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, actor Jeet, BJP leaders and actors Rudranil Ghosh and Roopa Ganguly, technicians and guild members gathered at Nandan to discuss the long-pending issues confronting Tollywood. Purnima Chakraborty, Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs, along with officials of the department, was also present.
"There would be no politicisation of Tollywood. Once the elections are over, all technicians will be able to work without any hassle. We will also speak to the CM about the 30 per cent subsidy so that more shooting can take place and technicians can benefit," said Mithun.
The technicians were visibly enthusiastic about the prospect of elections and the formation of a new committee. Many of them hailed Rudranil as the 'Mahanayak' of the event, crediting him with helping make the meeting possible.
Mithun is also scheduled to meet representatives of the Eastern India Motion Picture Association (EIMPA), where elections are also pending.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.