Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, September 23: The Puja release of ‘Deshu 7’ drawing closer, actor-director Dev has revealed that the pressure surrounding the film has been keeping him awake at night. Taking on both the lead acting role and the directorial responsibility, Dev has admitted that the project has been a deeply demanding journey from its planning stage to its final release.

The Bengali film industry is heading into one of its most competitive periods of the year, with multiple films scheduled around the Puja season and filmmakers looking to capture the attention of a large festive audience. Against this backdrop, ‘Deshu 7’ has generated considerable curiosity, with Dev playing a central role both in front of and behind the camera.

Dev’s involvement with the project goes well beyond acting. Although the film was initially expected to be directed by someone else, he eventually decided to take over the directorial responsibilities himself. The story was subsequently developed and finalised, while the casting and production process moved forward under his close involvement.

The road to a Puja release was not without uncertainty. At one stage, Dev had reportedly been told that the film might not make it to theatres during the festive period. Release-related complications, industry considerations and competition from other films added to the uncertainty. However, Dev continued working towards his original plan and adapted the project as circumstances changed.

Subhashree Ganguly’s decision to join the film also proved significant. After she agreed to be part of the project, preparations for a Puja release gathered momentum. Interestingly, some key aspects of the film were still being worked out when its promotional campaign began, as the makers sought to generate audience interest ahead of the release.

The initial response from viewers has reportedly provided further encouragement to the team, with advance bookings drawing attention even before the film reaches theatres. The response has added to the expectations surrounding ‘Deshu 7’.

Yet Dev remains conscious that the real test will begin only after audiences watch the film on the big screen. Reflecting on the pressure he has experienced throughout the project, he said, “Ever since I started planning this film, I haven’t been able to sleep properly at night.”

Now, with Dev and Subhashree busy promoting the film, the focus has shifted towards its Puja release and the audience response. For Dev, who has shouldered responsibilities on both sides of the camera, ‘Deshu 7’ represents not just another acting project but a significant directorial undertaking as well.