Bengali Film Industry Declares Indefinite Strike After Rahul Arunoday Banerjee’s Death

Rahul Arunoday Banerjee’s untimely death has sparked outrage and grief in Tollywood. Industry leaders, actors, and unions have united to halt all shooting activities, pressing for urgent reforms to ensure safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.  

Circumstances Of The Incident  

Banerjee drowned on March 29 while filming a scene at Talsari Beach. His death has raised serious questions about safety protocols on sets, with allegations of negligence against the production team.  

Strike Announcement  

The West Bengal Motion Artists Forum confirmed that all shooting activities will be suspended indefinitely from April 7. Prominent actors such as Prosenjit Chatterjee, Rituparna Sengupta, Kaushik Gangopadhyay, and Priyanka Sarkar have extended support to the strike.  

Demands For Safety Measures  

Artists are calling for mandatory safety audits, trained personnel during risky shoots, and stricter accountability for producers. A police complaint has already been filed against the production team, demanding a thorough investigation.  

Industry Impact  

The strike has brought Tollywood to a standstill, affecting films, serials, and web series. While projects face delays, the move is expected to push long-term improvements in safety standards and working conditions.  

Key Highlights  

• Indefinite strike begins April 7, 2026  
• Triggered by Rahul Arunoday Banerjee’s death on March 29  
• All film, TV, and web shoots halted in West Bengal  
• Artists demand stronger safety protocols and accountability  
• Police complaint filed against producers for negligence  

Sources: Hindustan Times, Mathrubhumi English, Mint, Moneycontrol, Lokmat