Veteran actor and BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty has been appointed as an Advisor to the West Bengal government, taking on a formal role in the state administration’s Information and Cultural Affairs Department.
Chakraborty will enjoy the rank of a Cabinet Minister in the department, which is headed by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The appointment was announced by Adhikari during an event organised as part of the centenary celebrations of legendary Bengali actor Uttam Kumar.
The move comes as the state government steps up its focus on Bengal’s film heritage, cultural institutions and the development of the entertainment sector.
Mithun Gets Formal Role in Bengal Administration
Chakraborty is one of the most prominent figures in both Bengali and Hindi cinema and has been associated with the BJP for several years. He has also played a prominent role in the party’s political campaigns in West Bengal.
His new position gives him an official advisory role within the state government and places his experience in the film industry within the government’s cultural policy framework.
The appointment comes amid several initiatives aimed at strengthening Bengal’s film and cultural infrastructure.
Focus on Film and Cultural Infrastructure
The state government has announced plans to expand facilities for the film and cultural sectors. As part of these efforts, Adhikari recently laid the foundation stone for the Uttam Kumar Film Centre in New Town, Kolkata.
The proposed centre is expected to provide modern facilities related to film production and other activities connected with the industry.
The government has also announced plans for a new theatre complex, with the administration emphasising the need to strengthen Bengal’s cultural ecosystem and provide additional support to artists and the film sector.
Mithun’s Political Journey
Chakraborty has remained an active BJP campaigner in West Bengal and was among the party’s prominent faces during the 2026 Assembly election campaign.
His appointment now marks a shift from his role as a campaigner and political figure to a formal advisory position within the state administration.
The veteran actor has maintained a strong public presence in the BJP in recent years. Adhikari has also publicly referred to Chakraborty as a prominent party leader.
In August, the Chief Minister visited Chakraborty at a Kolkata hospital following the actor’s surgery and described him as a distinguished film actor and BJP central committee member.
New Role in Cultural Affairs
Chakraborty’s long association with the film industry is expected to be a key aspect of his new responsibility. His appointment brings a well-known figure from Bengal’s cinema community into the government’s cultural affairs structure.
The development comes as the Adhikari-led government marks its first 150 days in office and outlines its priorities for administration, investment and the state’s cultural and entertainment sectors.
With Cabinet rank attached to the advisory post, Chakraborty is set to play a formal role in matters concerning West Bengal’s Information and Cultural Affairs Department.