Amid ongoing tensions and debates around alleged “ban culture” in Tollywood, actor-producer Dev on Thursday resumed shooting for his upcoming film Deshu 7, with Anirban Bhattacharya joining the project.
Sharing an update on social media, Dev posted a photograph from the set and wrote, “Shooting mode on”, effectively confirming Anirban’s involvement in the film.
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The development comes at a time when discussions around internal industry politics and alleged non-cooperation within sections of Tollywood continue to dominate headlines. Sources close to the production said Dev had been keen on casting Anirban in Deshu 7 after being impressed by his performance in Raghu Dakait.
Ever since Anirban’s outstanding performance in ‘Raghu Dakait’, Dev’s goal was to cast Anirban in his next film ‘Deshu 7’. Despite non-cooperation from a section of the industry, Dev remained firm in his decision. Fans are also elated at the return of their favorite actor and many have applauded Dev’s courageous initiative.
After the 2026 assembly elections, along with Bengal’s politics, Tollywood’s equations have also changed. Personalities like Papia Adhikari, Rudranil Ghosh, Hiran Chattopadhyay and Rupa Gangopadhyay have received new responsibilities. In this atmosphere of change, Dev started work on his new production.
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‘Ban culture’ debate and recent controversy add political undertones
Just a few days ago, there was intense controversy surrounding Dev’s ’72-hour challenge’ to actor Prosenjit Chattopadhyay to eliminate ‘ban culture’ in the industry. When the Artist Forum was vocal demanding proper justice for Rahul Arunoday Bandyopadhyay’s death, Prosenjit expressed anger over Dev’s post.
Bumbada had said, ‘I don’t know how logical such a 72-hour challenge in a public forum is.’ However, despite criticism and being labeled an ‘opportunist’, Dev did not give up. Thursday’s start of shooting with actor Anirban Bhattacharya became a major example of Dev’s stubbornness and moral victory in Tollywood’s history.
