State Mandates Daily Prime-Time Screening of Bengali Films in Theatres

Rapid Summary

• The West Bengal government has mandated the screening of at least one Bengali-language film during prime time (3 p.m. to 9 p.m.) daily in every theater and multiplex across the State,starting August 13,2025.
• Previously, theatres were required to screen only 120 Bengali films annually; this has now increased to 365 screenings per year for every screen.
• Necessary amendments will be made to the West Bengal Cinemas (Regulation of Public Exhibitions) Rules, 1956, in line with these changes.
• The move aims to promote and support the Bengali film industry amid declining production numbers and reduced revenue due to competition from Bollywood films and multiplex policies.
• Industry veterans have welcomed this advancement as a boost for regional cinema’s survival and cultural preservation but acknowledge it comes after years of discussions on similar mandates.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The West Bengal government’s decision introduces a significant intervention aimed at reviving its regional film industry while promoting linguistic and cultural identity amidst challenges faced by other states’ migrants speaking Bengali language nationwide. By mandating daily prime-time screenings of Bengali films, regional filmmakers are afforded greater visibility-something they struggled with against Bollywood dominance in theatres.

However, while positive sentiments arise from filmmakers citing enhanced opportunities for independent productions and audience cultivation outside customary market dynamics, broader implications remain regarding audience reception over time. Although marathi cinema provides a precedent for state-backed promotions aiding cultural preservation successfully in Maharashtra, it remains unclear whether compulsory programming alone can overcome larger systemic issues like underfunding or content quality disparities within regional filmmaking.

This policy’s success will likely hinge on sustained innovation amongst filmmakers matched by robust regulatory execution-a matter deserving close follow-up as these efforts unfold incrementally across upcoming amendments impacting exhibitors directly.

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