On Uttam Kumar’s birth centenary, West Bengal CM vows to keep politics out of Tollywood

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari pledged on Thursday to keep politics out of the Bengali film industry while celebrating the birth centenary of late actor Uttam Kumar. Speaking at a large gathering in Tollygunge, the CM vowed transparency and proper support for the industry's talent. The event, held at the actor's statue, honored Uttam Kumar, popularly known as the 'Mahanayak' of Bengali cinema, who was born on September 3, 1926, and died at 53 in 1980.

The state government will renovate institutions named after him and launch a four-day celebration. During the previous Trinamool Congress government, the industry was accused of being "politically motivated". Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the actor on social media, comparing him to a legend whose timeless performances resonate across generations.