Artists and technicians in the Bengali film and television industry have decided to halt shooting of all serials and films starting April 7. This decision comes as a protest against the untimely death of actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee and a demand for increased security for actors. The West Bengal Artist’s Forum, comprising actors from Tollywood, made this announcement after a meeting at Technicians Studio.
Following the tragic incident on March 29 where Rahul Arunoday Banerjee lost his life while shooting a Bengali serial in Talsari beach, Odisha, actors in the industry took to the streets to express their grief. An FIR was lodged against the production company responsible for the shoot at the Regent Park police station in Kolkata. Rahul’s wife, actress Priyanka Sarkar, also filed an FIR at the Talsari police station.
The decision to stop shooting indefinitely was made collectively by the 4,000 members of the Artist’s Forum, 7,000 technician members of the federation, and the entire crew. The move aims to address safety concerns and honor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee’s memory. The demand for increased safety measures includes having an ambulance present at every shoot, emphasizing the need for protection during work.
Bengali superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee stressed the importance of security for everyone involved in the industry, highlighting the fear instilled by recent events. The industry stands united in seeking justice for Rahul Arunoday Banerjee’s death and ensuring the safety of all actors and crew members. The strike, set to begin on Tuesday, reflects the industry’s commitment to addressing safety issues and preserving lives.
