Mamata Banerjee Government Mandates Daily Prime-Time Bengali Film Screenings in Cinema Halls
The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has issued a directive requiring all cinema halls and multiplex screens across the state to screen at least one Bengali film every day during prime time.
A notification released on Wednesday stated that the daily screenings—amounting to 365 shows per year—will come into effect immediately. The government clarified that “prime time” specifically refers to the period between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
“In every cinema hall, and on all screens of every multiplex in the state, 365 prime-time screenings of Bengali films shall be held mandatorily throughout the year, with at least one Bengali show per day for all 365 days. Prime-time shows shall mean shows held between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM,” the notification read.
The directive aims to promote and support the Bengali film industry. It applies equally to single-screen theatres as well as each screen in multiplexes.
“This decision reflects the state government’s ongoing efforts to encourage regional cinema and ensure that Bengali films get adequate exposure and commercial opportunities in their home state,” an official said.
To implement this mandate, the government will amend the West Bengal Cinemas (Regulation of Public Exhibitions) Rules, 1956, and has instructed authorities, cinema associations, and relevant departments to ensure strict compliance.
The move is expected to create a significant positive impact on the local film industry, guaranteeing consistent screen space for Bengali films and potentially boosting box office collections and investment in the sector.
