Dev Challenges Tollywood's Cancel Culture by Casting Banned Actor Anirban Bhattacharya
In a bold move against the prevailing cancel culture in Tollywood, Trinamool Congress MP and actor Dev has publicly spoken out, declaring that his directorial debut will include actor Anirban Bhattacharya from the previously "banned" list by the Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India. This decision comes amid ongoing tensions within the West Bengal film industry, highlighting Dev's stance on prioritizing the welfare of hundreds of workers over punitive measures against individuals.
Urgent Appeal for Workers' Livelihoods
Dev has made a heartfelt request to members of the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists' Forum, urging them to consider the fate of approximately 600 workers and their families whose futures have become uncertain due to the non-cooperation with production houses led by Leena Gangopadhyay and Saibal Banerjee. This action was announced by the Forum, Federation, and EIMPA earlier this week, sparking concerns about widespread job losses in the industry.
While Dev will be campaigning in Malda on Sunday, when Forum members meet to discuss their future course of action, he has emphasized the need for a broader perspective. "I have told Bumba-da (Prosenjit Chatterjee) that no matter what, he has to take up the issue of ban in the industry," Dev stated. "We are going through such a time when we want to take all decisions ourselves. But the investigation is still on in Rahul's case. Cops haven't shared their findings. I am not sure what decision will be taken on Sunday by the Forum. All I can say is I can't cancel one person without thinking about what will happen to the rest 600. If I am the president, I have to think of the larger perspective," he added, calling for a balanced approach that weighs the impact on all affected parties.
Breaking the Ban-Savvy Image of Tollywood
In a significant announcement late on Friday, Dev and Subhashree revealed that their upcoming puja release, "DeSu 7," will feature Anirban Bhattacharya. This move is widely seen as a major step towards dismantling Tollywood's reputation for being "ban-savvy" and promoting a more inclusive environment. "I am against cancel culture. Banning people also deprives technicians of work. In the larger interest, betterment of the industry and the image of the State, it is important to cancel the cancel culture," Dev asserted, underscoring his commitment to fostering unity and progress within the film community.
Dev explained that his decision followed the expiration of a 72-hour deadline given to Prosenjit Chatterjee to resolve the matter, and he has initiated the process of withdrawing the case from the Competition Commission of India. He believes that genuine resolutions can be achieved swiftly through open dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders.
Support for Banned Workers and Industry Challenges
While Dev has not promised work to other banned individuals, he has encouraged them, including director Sudeshna Roy, to seek new producers and restart their projects. "I am sure technicians will support them. I am there to help them if there is any problem regarding coordination between technicians and them," he offered, highlighting his role as a mediator in the industry's conflicts.
When questioned about potential resistance from Federation president Swarup Biswas and whether he has contingency plans, Dev responded confidently, "I have Plan Z in place too. Come what may, Anirban will work in my film. I am certain all our technicians will work in my film out of love. The problem is if someone starts using power and shows ego," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of humility and collaboration over authority and ego-driven decisions.
Addressing Broader Industry Issues
Dev pointed out that a critical issue plaguing Tollywood is the shortage of producers, noting that increased investment from new producers would significantly benefit technicians and workers. There is speculation that two new serials may soon commence, potentially providing employment to unemployed workers, technicians, and actors from Magic Moments and Organic Studios Pvt Ltd.
Regarding concerns about veterans such as Sabitri Chatterjee and Madhabi Mukhopadhyay, as well as office staff linked to the affected production houses, Dev reiterated his earlier stance. "When the decision to ban the production house was taken, I said that an accident happened and Rahul's demise touched a raw nerve for all. Yet, I said that an alternative plan was needed for all those who would lose work. Punishing one person should not mean forcing 600 others onto the street," he concluded, advocating for solutions that safeguard the livelihoods of the entire industry workforce.
