West Bengal Mandates Prime-Time Slots for Bengali Films in Cinemas

Kolkata, Aug 13 (PTI): In a significant initiative to bolster the Bengali film industry, the West Bengal government has mandated that all cinema halls across the state reserve a prime-time slot exclusively for regional movies on each of their screens every day, an official has announced.

Prime time is defined as the hours between 3 PM and 10 PM, which are typically when cinemas experience the highest audience turnout.

This directive is set to take effect immediately.

According to the notification, every screen, including those in multiplexes, must allocate one prime-time slot daily exclusively for Bengali films.

"This decision embodies the state government's longstanding commitment to nurturing regional cinema, ensuring that Bengali films gain sufficient exposure and commercial opportunities in their home territory," the official stated.

The notification adds that amendments will be made to the West Bengal Cinemas (Regulation of Public Exhibitions) Rules, 1956, in due course to align with this new directive.

It is anticipated that this move will have a significant positive impact on the local film industry, providing regular screen space for Bengali films, and potentially enhancing box office performance and attracting industry investment.