Bengal CM Promises Non-Political Approach as State Marks Uttam Kumar Centenary

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has assured the Bengali film fraternity that his government will keep politics out of the industry. The statement came on Thursday as he inaugurated a four-day celebration marking the birth centenary of legendary actor Uttam Kumar, popularly known as the 'Mahanayak' of Bengali cinema.

Addressing a large gathering in Tollygunge, the heart of the Bengali film industry, Adhikari promised complete transparency and non-interference. "There will be no politics. I want everything to be transparent. There is talent and I want that talent to receive proper nourishment," he said. The event was held beside one of the tallest statues of the late actor in the city.

The Chief Minister also announced renovation work for institutions named after Uttam Kumar. The celebrations come at a time when the previous administration faced accusations from several artistes of politicising the film industry.

The event drew prominent figures from Bengali cinema, including actors Prosenjit Chatterjee, Rituparna Sengupta, Jeet, and actor-turned-MP Dev. Director Haranath Chakraborty was also present.

Kolkata has been decorated extensively for the occasion, with murals and cut-outs lining the route from Uttam Kumar's ancestral home to Tollygunge. Walls outside the Mahanayak Uttam Kumar metro station have been painted with graffiti depicting the actor's famous films and dialogues. Several old single-screen cinema halls have also been adorned for the festivities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the actor on social media, calling him a legend whose performances connect with people across generations. The PM had also referenced Uttam Kumar during his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address on August 30.

As part of the centenary events, Adhikari will lay the foundation stone for the Uttam Kumar Film Centre in New Town on Friday. India Post will release a commemorative postage stamp, and a film festival will open at Nandan with Satyajit Ray's classic 'Nayak', starring Uttam Kumar.

Born on September 3, 1926, in north Kolkata, Uttam Kumar passed away on July 24, 1980, at the age of 53.