What Are the Key Stakeholders Discussing for the Development of the Film Industry in Odisha?

Synopsis
On May 19, key figures from the <b>Odia film industry</b> convened to address pressing issues and strategies for its advancement. The meeting focused on enhancing the film community’s visibility, establishing film awards, and fostering a supportive ecosystem for filmmakers. Aiming for cultural growth and public enjoyment, stakeholders proposed vital initiatives to uplift <b>Odia cinema</b>.
Key Takeaways
- Enhancing visibility and promotion of Odia cinema.
- Establishing regular State Film Awards.
- Formulating a new film policy to support production.
- Improving cinema infrastructure and accessibility.
- Empowering individuals within the film community.
Bhubaneswar, May 19 (NationPress) Key players within the Odisha film industry gathered on Monday for an in-depth dialogue regarding various challenges and opportunities in promoting the Odia cinema.
The assembly took place at the Sanskruti Bhavan conference hall, organized by the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, focusing on the holistic advancement of Odia films and its community.
According to an official announcement, the gathering aimed to tackle several elements such as enhancing the visibility and marketing of Odia cinema, establishing consistent State Film Awards, and bolstering support for the film ecosystem.
Distinguished Odia film actor and Digapahandi MLA, Sidhanta Mohapatra, led the meeting, which was attended by producers, directors, actors, actresses, writers, and musicians.
Participants contributed insightful suggestions aimed at boosting the growth and improvement of Odia cinema.
“Significant discussions revolved around ensuring the timely annual presentation of the Odisha State Film Awards, the selection process for jury members and chairs, ideally including those closely involved in the arts and film, especially the younger generation. Proposals were made to increase cash prizes, broaden the existing 33 award categories, and create a dedicated website offering detailed information about nominated and award-winning films and artists,” stated the official announcement.
The dialogue also covered the formulation of a new film policy, governmental subsidies for film production, enhancing the operations of the Odisha Film Development Corporation Ltd., and upgrading the infrastructure of Kalinga Studio.
Recommendations were made to enhance the foundational infrastructure for film production in the state, boost the number of cinema halls, lower ticket prices to make cinema more accessible, establish a dedicated film archive, and create a separate platform for promoting OTT and digital content.
Participants voiced the need for governmental backing to produce films based on authentic Odia narratives and to empower individuals within the film community. The meeting concluded with a consensus on implementing strategic measures to elevate the Odia film sector for cultural enrichment and public entertainment.