In a significant political crossover, popular Bengali film actress Parno Mittra officially joined the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday, December 26. The event marked a sharp reversal in her political journey, as she had been a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the past six years.
A Political Homecoming in Kolkata
The joining ceremony was held in the presence of senior TMC leaders, including state Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya and party leader Jayprakash Majumder. Mittra described the day as being "like Christmas" for her, signaling a fresh start. She expressed her commitment to move forward under the guidance of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the leadership of Abhishek Banerjee.
Reflecting on her previous political alignment, Mittra was candid. "I joined six years ago, but it did not work out," she stated, referring to her time with the BJP. "People make mistakes, and correcting those mistakes is important. I feel blessed that I could correct that mistake." This admission came nearly three years after she contested and lost the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections from the Baranagar constituency on a BJP ticket.
From Silver Screen to Political Arena
Parno Mittra, who began her acting career in 2007 with the TV serial 'Khela', rose to fame with her film debut in Anjan Dutt's 'Ranjana Ami Ar Ashbo Na'. Her entry into the TMC adds to the growing list of Tollywood personalities active in the party. Notable figures like Dev, Soham Chakraborty, Raj Chakraborty, and June Malia are already associated with the Trinamool Congress.
According to a senior TMC leader, the party anticipates more actors and film industry figures to join its ranks as the state gears up for the next Assembly elections in 2026. Mittra, however, did not comment on whether she would seek a ticket to contest in the upcoming polls.
Reactions and Road Ahead
Welcoming Mittra, Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya revealed that the actress had initiated the contact. "Parno herself contacted us. After seeing the development of the state under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee, she expressed her desire to be part of that journey. We welcome her to the Trinamool Congress," Bhattacharya said.
The BJP's reaction was dismissive. Actor and BJP leader Rudranil Ghosh, who is also Mittra's colleague in the film industry, remarked that her move would neither benefit the TMC nor harm the BJP. He noted that Mittra had been politically inactive since her electoral defeat in 2021.
This political shift underscores the ongoing tussle for influence and celebrity endorsements in West Bengal's vibrant political landscape, setting the stage for interesting dynamics ahead of the 2026 state elections.
