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West Bengal News Updated Jun 26, 2026

Anupam Kher Returns to Bengali Cinema After 26 Years with New Film

Veteran actor Anupam Kher has announced his return to Bengali cinema after a gap of 26 years. The project, titled 'Shuru Theke Shuru', will be backed by his production house Anupam Kher Studio in collaboration with Friends Communication and Firdausul Hassan. Kher expressed excitement about reconnecting with the industry that greatly influenced his artistic journey. His previous Bengali film 'Bariwali' (1999) was directed by Rituparno Ghosh and featured Kirron Kher, who won the National Film Award for Best Actress.

Anupam Kher announces comeback to Bengali Films with new project after 26 years

Mumbai, June 26

Veteran actor Anupam Kher has announced his return to Bengali cinema after a gap of 26 years.

Addressing the media, the actor revealed that his production house will be backing a new Bengali project. He also expressed excitement about reconnecting with the industry that has greatly influenced his artistic journey. Anupam shared, "Anupam Kher Studio, our company, is going to make a Bengali film after 26 years with Friends Communication and Mr. Firdausul Hassan. And for that, we have come to inform you officially. The film I made 26 years ago, Bariwali, with Rituparno Ghosh. Now we are making it here. We want to set up a school here, an acting school."

"The Chief Minister has given a lot of good wishes. And he wants to bring many positive changes. He wants to take Bengal to the next level, which is possible. And the name of our film is Shuru Theke Shuru. Let's start from the beginning. And I told him that let's start from the beginning. And we need your support."

The 71-year-old actor went on to state, "This film industry-we have learned everything from here. Whether it is music, cinema, Manikda, Mrinal Sen, or writers like Bankim Chandra Chatterjee-we have learned everything from here. So officially, we want to give them good wishes and tell them that we are making this film."

Bengali film "Bariwali" was directed by Rituparno Ghosh and produced by Anupam Kher. It featured Kirron Kher, Roopa Ganguly, and Chiranjeet Chakraborty. Anupam's wife received the National Film Award for Best Actress for her performance in the film.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Sneha F

It's heartwarming to see Anupam Kher acknowledge his roots. The Bengali film industry has indeed produced legends like Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen. I hope "Shuru Theke Shuru" lives up to its name and marks a new beginning for quality cinema in Bengal. Also, the Chief Minister's support is encouraging - let's hope this brings more opportunities for local artistes. 🙏

James A

Great to see Anupam Kher giving back to the industry that shaped him. But 26 years is a long gap - I hope he doesn't try to replicate Bariwali's formula. Bengal deserves fresh stories, not nostalgia. The acting school plan is a good step though, if executed properly.

Rohit L

"Shuru Theke Shuru" - what a beautiful title! Anupam ji's respect for Bengali culture is evident. I think this could inspire other Bollywood artists to collaborate with regional industries. Also, a proper acting school in Bengal could reduce the exodus of talent to Mumbai. All the best! 🎬

Priya S

While I'm excited, I can't help but wonder: why now? After 26 years, what changed? But if Anupam ji is genuinely committed to promoting Bengali cinema and creating jobs for local technicians and actors, then this is a welcome move. Let's see the quality of the final product. 🤔

Michael C

As someone who enjoys international cinema, I admire how Anupam Kher bridges different film industries. His mention of Bengali literary giants like Bankim Chandra Chatterjee shows he understands the intellectual depth of Bengal. Hope this project brings global attention to Bengali cinema.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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