🔔 Stay Updated!

Get instant alerts on breaking news, top stories, and updates from News EiSamay.

Dev begins ‘Deshu 7’ shoot with Anirban despite Tollywood ‘ban culture’ controversy

Dev resumed shooting for ‘Deshu 7’ with Anirban Bhattacharya amid ongoing discussions around Tollywood’s alleged ban culture.

By Surjosnata Chatterjee

May 15, 2026 00:45 IST

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.

Also Read | Dhurandhar 2 trailer released: Here’s when the film premieres on Netflix Malaysia

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.


Dev makes a statement in Tollywood with Anirban Bhattacharya by his side IG/imdevadhikari


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.

Also Read | ‘Ho gaya abhi?’: Alia Bhatt reacts after crowd surrounds her at Cannes

‘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.

Articles you may like: