From shooting to promotions, everything around Dev’s upcoming film Projapoti 2 seemed to be progressing smoothly. However, just days before release, a fresh controversy has surfaced — the struggle to secure enough cinema halls.
On Tuesday, actor-producer Dev’s social media post sparked widespread discussion across Tollywood. His words reflected visible disappointment and frustration. Dev wrote, “This year I have been given many labels — some called me a mafia, others a megastar. Yet, even after my film’s posters went up in theatres, the film did not get screens. I hope the theatre owners are happy, because if they survive, Bengali cinema will survive.”
Barely two months ago, four Bengali films were released during the festive Puja season. The intense internal competition within Tollywood was no secret, and during that phase, new terms quietly entered the industry’s vocabulary — phrases like ‘mafia man’ and ‘window production’. Now, just two days before release, similar allegations, shocks, and expressions of hurt have resurfaced.
The photograph shared by Dev was from Navina Cinema Hall, one of Kolkata’s most iconic and heritage theatres. However, sources confirm that during the Christmas season, while two other newly released Bengali films will be screened there, Projapoti 2 will not be part of the lineup.
Currently, Projapoti 2 is being screened at Priya Cinema Hall, and is also receiving prime-time slots at Priya and Menoka theatres. However, the remaining two Bengali films have also been allotted shows, making screen allocation a balancing act for hall owners.
What truly matters beyond these behind-the-scenes decisions is the audience’s enthusiasm. Dev’s films have consistently drawn crowds, creating a festive atmosphere inside theatres. Viewers are eager to witness that excitement return — packed halls, cheering audiences, and the shared joy of watching Bengali cinema on the big screen once again.
Whether this issue is rooted in logistics, competition, or deeper politics remains a question. But one thing is certain — the demand for Dev’s cinema is undeniable, and the audience is waiting.