Odisha Government to Introduce New Film Policy, CM Holds Brainstorming Session with Ollywood Personalities
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced a series of major initiatives for the revival and development of the Odia film industry, including the formulation of a dedicated film policy and the establishment of a film training institute in the state.
At a special interaction programme held at Culture Bhavan on Friday, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held detailed discussions with prominent personalities and artistes from the Odia film fraternity on the present condition and future of Odia cinema.
Describing Odia cinema as a symbol of the identity and cultural pride of the state, the Chief Minister said a new and independent film policy would be introduced soon to usher in a “new era” for the industry.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said cinema is not merely a medium of entertainment but a reflection of a nation’s memory, culture, emotions and soul. He stated that societies producing great cinema are able to establish a strong identity on the global stage.
Calling this a “turning point” for Odia cinema, Majhi said this is not the time for ordinary efforts but for extraordinary initiatives. He stressed that Odia films should not imitate other industries but instead discover and strengthen their own unique voice.
The Chief Minister urged filmmakers to focus on original themes deeply connected with Odia life and culture. He highlighted subjects such as the culture surrounding Lord Jagannath, Odisha’s maritime history of Kalinga, tribal traditions, stories of people’s resilience during cyclones and floods, the joys and struggles of rural Odisha, and the riverine life along the Mahanadi and other rivers.
“If films are made on themes rooted in Odia society and culture, they will naturally connect with audiences,” he said.
Majhi also acknowledged the need for professional film education and announced that a film training institute would be set up in Odisha to help aspiring filmmakers and technicians develop skills in cinema production.
Criticising previous administrations for neglecting the film sector, the Chief Minister said the present government is committed to strengthening Odia identity and assured that lack of funds would not become an obstacle in the growth of the Odia film industry. He added that a strong film infrastructure would soon be developed in the state.
Odisha Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said Odisha’s film industry would play a significant role during the state’s centenary celebrations in 2036. He expressed confidence that the discussions held during the interaction would help shape the future direction of Odia cinema.
Among those present at the programme were actor-turned-politicians Akash Das Nayak and Sidhanta Mahapatra, along with senior government officials and cultural administrators.
Several well-known personalities from the Odia film industry, including Anubhav Mohanty, Anu Choudhury, Pushpa Panda, Harihar Mahapatra and Pinky Pradhan, as well as producer Siddharth Agarwal and several technicians, participated in the discussion.
The Chief Minister also held detailed discussions with artistes and film workers regarding various challenges faced by the industry and assured them of long-term solutions.