However, the name of her predecessor, former Chief Minister Jyoti Basu, remains intact on another plaque on the same wall.

Mamata's name covered on Nandan plaques

While the plaque bearing Jyoti Basu's name commemorates the laying of the foundation stone of Nandan in 1980, Mamata Banerjee's name was added during the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regime to mark a renovation of the building.

Mamata's name on several other plaques at Nandan has also reportedly been covered.

Mamata Banerjee at the inauguration of 31st KIFF. Photo: IBNS File

 

Change follows BJP's rise to power in Bengal

The development comes months after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in West Bengal for the first time, ending the TMC's 15-year uninterrupted rule in the state.

Mithun Chakraborty threatens to quit KIFF duties

Reacting to the development, veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, who is overseeing the 32nd KIFF, strongly opposed retaining Mamata Banerjee's name on the plaques.

Former West Bengal CM late Jyoti Basu's plaque remains at Nandan. Photo: Screen-grab

Chakraborty warned that he would step down from all his KIFF responsibilities if the former Chief Minister's name continued to appear on the plaques.

“Do you still want her name to remain? I will quit KIFF if Mamata Banerjee’s name continues to appear on the plaques at Nandan,” Chakraborty, who is also an adviser to the present West Bengal government, said, speaking to a battery of reporters.

The 32nd Kolkata International Film Festival will be held from December 16 to 23.

About Nandan

Nandan, Kolkata's state-run film and cultural centre, was established to promote film appreciation and cinematic culture.

The foundation stone was laid by then West Bengal Chief Minister Jyoti Basu on April 11, 1980, while the complex was formally inaugurated by legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray on September 2, 1985.

Ray, who served as its first chairman, also designed its iconic logo. Nandan has since emerged as an important hub for film screenings, retrospectives and festivals, and serves as the principal venue for the Kolkata International Film Festival.