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The Mamata Banerjee led West Bengal government, on Wednesday, has issued an order making it mandatory for all cinema halls and multiplexes across the state to screen Bengali films, mandatorily in at least one prime time shows. The move, coming months ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, is being positioned as a step to preserve and promote Bengal’s rich cinematic heritage - yet a theme strongly tied to Bengali identity and pride.
"In every Cinema hall, and in all screens (each screen) of every. Multiplex situated in this State, 365 (Three hundred and Sixty Five) prime time shows/screenings of Bengali films shall mandatorily be held throughout the year with at least one Bengali show per day for all 365 days during the year. Explanation: Prime time shows shall mean shows held between 3:00 PM to 9.00 PM”, read the notification.
The order applies to both single-screen theatres and multiplex chains, regardless of ownership. Officials clarified that the rule does not restrict the screening of films in other languages but mandates that Bengali films get a share of the slots in every programming cycle.
While the government frames the decision as a cultural measure, its political undertones are unmistakable. With elections drawing closer, the ruling Trinamool Congress is reinforcing its image as the custodian of Bengal’s cultural identity - from literature and theatre to the globally acclaimed Bengali film industry.
Bengal, home to cinematic legends such as Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, Ritwik Ghatak, and a thriving contemporary film scene, has seen its share of concerns over the dwindling visibility of regional cinema in multiplex schedules dominated by Hindi and English blockbusters. The state’s intervention is being read as both a protective cultural policy and a strategic nod to the electorate’s emotional connection with the Bengali language.
“It was much expected. For long the talks have been going on. The number of theatres have gone down drastically as it is and now Bengali films don’t get adequate shows then how will films survive. If Bengali films don’t get prime time slots, many people don’t turn up. It’s a very good move. We welcome it. It should be implemented and monitored by the state government. It’s there in Maharashtra and even in down South. The way down South prioritises their own films- be it Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam or Kannada - thats inspiring. This move will help Bengali films grow”, said renowned national award winning film maker Goutam Ghose.
Industry insiders have welcomed the move, though some multiplex owners are seeking clarity on implementation timelines and show quotas. Filmmakers, on the other hand, believe it will give regional productions greater visibility and financial viability.
