Rahul Banerjee was rescued alive; serial producers promise full probe
What's the story
The makers of the Bengali television show Bhole Baba Par Karega have released a statement following the tragic death of actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee. The 43-year-old actor died on March 29 after reportedly drowning while shooting at Talsari beach in Odisha's Baleswar district. In their statement, the production house expressed deep sorrow and promised a fair investigation into the incident.
Statement
'Request a few days to gather accounts'
The production house said, per PTI, "All members of the cast and crew are in profound mourning." "We request a few days to gather accounts of the cast and crew present at the time of the incident in a neutral and structured manner so that we can present a comprehensive and accurate report." Makers added they would welcome a representative nominated by Banerjee's family, friends, or the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists's Forum to observe the process and ensure fairness.
Investigation details
Inaccurate claims regarding the actor's death
The makers also shared preliminary findings while countering some media claims. "Initial information suggests that Rahul was rescued alive from the water and was attempting to communicate," they said. "He was first taken to a nearby clinic at Talsari where no doctor was available, and was later shifted to Digha State General Hospital, where he was declared dead." They added, "Claims that the actor remained underwater for an extended period are in all probability incorrect."
Ongoing investigation
'No possibility of negligence...will go unexamined'
The production house stressed that all aspects of the incident will be thoroughly probed. "All permissions, communications with authorities and relevant documents will be furnished as part of the ongoing investigation," they said. "No possibility of negligence, however small, will go unexamined." They also noted that director Saibal Banerjee rushed to Kolkata upon hearing the news and visited the actor's residence on the same night.
Safety concerns
WB Motion Pictures Artists's Forum demands thorough investigation
Meanwhile, the West Bengal Motion Pictures Artists's Forum has raised concerns about the incident. "It is important to understand what exactly transpired during the shoot and whether proper safety measures were in place," the forum said in its statement. The body added that it is closely monitoring developments and expects a thorough and impartial investigation, stressing that artist safety on shooting locations must remain a top priority.
Incident details
Banerjee died on the way to hospital
The actor was shooting a scene with co-actor Sweta Mishra when she lost her footing and fell into a depression on the uneven seabed. Banerjee immediately jumped in to save her. He was alive initially but later succumbed to his injuries at Digha State General Hospital. The police have registered an unnatural death case and initiated a joint probe involving Odisha and West Bengal authorities. Police officials have told the media that the showrunners didn't seek permission to shoot.