KOLKATA: The Bengali entertainment industry has declared an indefinite strike from April 7, intensifying demands for stricter on-set safety protocols after the tragic death of actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee.
Banerjee passed away on March 29 after drowning while filming the television serial Bhole Baba Paar Karega, according to the West Bengal Motion Pictures Artists’ Forum.
The strike was formalised by the Forum following an emergency meeting on 5 April at Technicians’ Studio in Kolkata, attended by prominent industry figures including actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, directors, producers, and representatives of television channels.
In an official statement shared on Facebook, the Forum confirmed the industry-wide work stoppage. The letter, re-shared by Prosenjit Chatterjee on his official Facebook page, stated: “As you all know, on March 29, 2026, during the shooting of the serial Bhole Baba Paar Karega, our friend and member of our organisation, Rahul Arunoday Banerjee, passed away suddenly. The exact cause of our dear member’s untimely demise is still unknown to us.”
It added: “In the presence of the Artists’ Forum, Federation, television producers and directors, it was decided that from April 7, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM, we – the artists and technicians – will observe an indefinite strike. This will continue until specific steps are taken to thoroughly review and ensure the proper safety and security of artists and technicians during shoots, both indoors and outdoors.”
The Forum has called on all members to assemble at Technicians’ Studio at 10:00 AM on April 7 in support of the strike, noting: “We believe your spontaneous participation will boost our morale.” The directive excludes those currently engaged in outdoor shoots outside Kolkata or West Bengal.
The strike announcement follows a large protest march in Kolkata on April 5, during which members of the film and television fraternity demanded accountability and justice for Banerjee’s death.