Kolkata Police summons Waseem Rizvi ahead of release of “The Diary of West Bengal”, film stirs up debate amid controversies.

Mahesh Dhoundiyal – Delhi

The release of “The Diary of West Bengal” on August 30, 2024 has sparked intense debate, with Kolkata Police summoning Waseem Rizvi, also known as Jitendra Narayan Singh, proving to be adding fuel to the fire. Already mired in controversy, the film is garnering a lot of attention for its bold content and unflinching portrayal of socio-political realities.

Directed by director Sanoy Mishra and starring Ashmin Mehta and Yajur Marwah, “The Diary of West Bengal” is not just a film—it is a bold commentary on the socio-political sounds resonating in the region. The film’s relentless dialogues and raw portrayal of the darker sides of society resonate deeply with the turbulent situations currently unfolding in Bangladesh and Kolkata, making its story highly relevant in today’s times.

The film portrays these issues with a realism that is rare in Indian cinema and brings out the bitter truths that many want to ignore. Naturally, this has led to a flood of criticism, with the filmmakers being accused of distorting historical facts to escalate communal tensions and sensationalism. In the most recent legal development, Kolkata Police has summoned Waseem Rizvi in ​​an ongoing investigation under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Information Technology Act and the Cinema Act, in connection with a case filed in May 2023.

Despite facing these legal and social challenges, the filmmakers remain resolute. They say “The Diary of West Bengal” reflects the harsh realities that many people in the region face, and is intended to be thought-provoking and encourage discussion, not stir up unrest. The ongoing unrest and socio-political developments in both Bangladesh and Kolkata add further depth to the film’s message, making it an accurate reflection of contemporary issues.

As the release date nears, the film has already managed to grab eyeballs and start conversations. Whether it is praised as a daring artistic expression or condemned for its bold approach, it is clear that “The Diary of West Bengal” has a message that resonates far beyond cinema.