Kolkata: Bengali films, mainstream and independent, have to be given priority with better show and run time at theatres: This was the unanimous decision taken at a meeting between minister Aroop Biswas and 40 Tollywood exhibitors, distributors, producers, directors and actors at Nandan on Thursday.
A panel was formed to look into the modality and streamline Bengali film releases to avoid crowding.
Navina owner Navin Chowkhani said, "It was unanimously decided the majority of prime shows will go to Bengali films.
" Asked about what happens if a Mumbai distributor insists on Bollywood productions getting majority of shows, distributor Satadeep Saha said, "We have to tell Mumbai producers about our decision. But no Mumbai producer has ever told me to sideline regional content.
" Distributor Pritam Jalan said, "We will discuss with the right holders of Hindi films.
"
Actor Rituparna Sengupta told TOI: "Distributors and producers are trying to solve the issue as ‘Dhumketu' is releasing with ‘War 2'. ‘Madam Sengupta' was removed despite having houseful shows. ‘Goodbye Mountain' didn't get good shows. Bengali films need one-and-a-half weeks to reach the audience.
" She said independent directors, too, needed space and shows. "Their films are removed by Sunday. Contemporary Bengali films have to be given a chance," she said.
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