As a section of society calls for refraining from Durga Puja celebrations until justice is served for the R.G. Kar victim, two Bengali film stars have emphasised the need to balance protests with the livelihoods of those in the entertainment industry.
Kolkata is in the spotlight following the discovery of a 31-year-old doctor who was raped and murdered inside the seminar hall of R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, 2024.
Bengali superstar Dev, whose production Tekka is slated for release on October 8, told PTI, “The festival is for people, of the people, and by the people.”
He added, “Festivals cannot belong to you and me solely. They are for everybody, for all the people of Bengal. Every year, many people cannot join the festivities due to livelihood issues even on puja days, some others keep away as they do not like taking part while the rest soak in celebrations. So it is up to a person whether he/she wants to embrace the festive mood.”
Dev, speaking at the launch of a song from Tekka, directed by Srijit Mukherjee, highlighting the broader impact on the film industry said, “Thousands will be affected if movies are not released. Individual rights cannot be dictated. Many people depend on cinema halls for livelihood, especially during puja and other occasions. We can fight against the system and social evils, but should we fight against our own people?” The actor maintained that his support for protests remains intact, but urged not to overlook the film industry’s well-being.
Also Read:RG Kar rape-murder case: West Bengal junior doctors partially resume duties after 42-day protest
Popular actress Swastika Mukherjee shared similar concerns, saying, “Every time the faces of Abhaya’s parents come to my mind, I feel I cannot dance to the ‘dhak’ beats at pandals and processions, as if nothing has happened. But I cannot dictate what others will do.”
Swastika affirmed her plans to partake in rituals but not in celebratory events, adding, “I will offer ‘pushpanjali’ on Ashtami like in previous years and will certainly offer ‘anjali’ at Sandhi pujo. While I won’t join any celebrations, I will pray to the goddess. This does not contradict attending promotions for my film or inviting people to watch it.”