All Odisha Film Directors’ Association, Producers Guild Raise Concerns Over OFDC, Seek CM’s Intervention
Bhubaneswar: The All Odisha Film Directors’ Association and the Odisha Producers Guild jointly organised an important press conference at Upendra Hotel in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, voicing unified concerns over the future, protection, and development of the Odia film industry.
During the conference, both organisations expressed deep dissatisfaction and concern regarding the functioning of the Odisha Film Development Corporation (OFDC) and issues surrounding the renovation and management of Kalinga Studio.
Representatives of directors and producers stated that they have been facing challenges for a long time and stressed the urgent need for corrective action.
The two bodies jointly appealed to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to intervene immediately for the comprehensive development of the Odia film industry. They demanded the formation of a permanent development committee that would include film directors and producers in policymaking and decision-making processes.
According to members of the associations, any development plan for the film industry would remain incomplete without the involvement of its key stakeholders, especially directors and producers. They warned that without genuine government interest and effective intervention to safeguard the heritage and future of Odia cinema, the industry could face further decline.
Key Demands Raised by the Associations
The organisations placed several demands before the state government, including:
Construction of small cinema halls with at least 100 seats in every block to improve access to cinema and strengthen exhibition infrastructure across Odisha.
Clarification on why the ₹10 crore allocation meant for establishing a multiplex cinema hall in the OFDC building remains stalled.
Immediate release of pending producer subsidies of ₹3.5 lakh, reportedly outstanding since 2007.
Formulation and immediate implementation of a new film policy prepared in consultation with producers and directors.
A review of the proposed ₹7 crore expenditure for Kalinga Studio maintenance.
The organisations questioned the rationale behind the amount, arguing that if around 20 personnel are directly employed, the estimated expenditure over two years would be approximately ₹60 lakh, raising questions about the justification for the ₹7 crore allocation.
Both organisations unanimously reiterated their demands and expressed hope that the Odisha government would take prompt and appropriate measures to provide a fresh direction and renewed momentum to the Odia film industry.