Odisha to Introduce New Film Policy, Upgrade Kalinga Studio into Digital Hub: CM at State Film Awards

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday announced that the state government will soon unveil a new Film Policy aimed at the holistic development of the Odia film industry and the welfare of artists. He also said Kalinga Studio will be transformed into one of India’s leading digital and post-production hubs.

The Chief Minister made the announcements while attending the 35th and 36th State Film Awards ceremony held at the Convention Centre of Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar.
Calling Odia cinema “a symbol of our identity,” Majhi said the government is committed to protecting artists and providing technical support for producing high-quality films. He revealed that after recent discussions with members of the film fraternity, the government is preparing a new Film Policy that will strengthen the industry and offer greater support to filmmakers and technicians.

Recalling the rich legacy of Odia cinema, the Chief Minister noted that the first Odia film, Sita Bibaha, was produced in 1936 by Mohan Sundar Deb Goswami—the same year Odisha became a separate province. He said classic films such as Maya Miriga, Bhukha, Sesha Shrabana, and Hakim Babu introduced Odisha’s culture to the world, while recent films like Daman, Pratikshya, Sala Budha, Pushkara, Bou Buttu Bhuta, and Barabadhu have given Odia cinema a fresh national identity.

Highlighting the growing importance of OTT platforms and modern filmmaking technologies, Majhi said Odisha’s youth have acquired world-class skills in cinematography, sound design and visual effects. To create employment opportunities within the state, the government plans to develop Kalinga Studio into a major digital and post-production hub while also providing international-standard training to young professionals. He also urged filmmakers to promote cinema tourism by showcasing Odisha’s natural beauty.

Appealing to producers and audiences alike, the Chief Minister said meaningful films rooted in Odia culture would draw viewers back to theatres. He reminded audiences that hundreds of technicians, writers and workers depend on the success of every film.

In a strong warning, Majhi said the government would take strict action if Odia films are removed from cinema halls to promote other films. He asserted that the government is closely monitoring the issue and remains committed to protecting the interests of the Odia film industry.

At the awards ceremony, veteran actor Shyamalendu Bhattacharya received the prestigious Mohan Sundar Deb Goswami Samman for 2023, while veteran actress Namrata Das was honoured with the same award for 2024. Both recipients received a cash prize of ₹5 lakh.

The Chief Minister also presented awards in 62 categories recognising excellence in Odia cinema for 2023 and 2024.

Speaking at the event, Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said the Odia film industry would contribute significantly to the state’s orange economy and announced that the Biju Patnaik Film and Television Institute of Odisha would be strengthened to produce skilled professionals for the industry.

Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services and Odia Language, Literature & Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the development of Odia cinema is essential for building a developed Odisha and assured that the government is committed to reviving and strengthening the state’s film industry.

Among those present were MLAs Sidhanta Mahapatra, Akash Das Nayak and Babu Singh, filmmaker Pranab Das, senior artists, film technicians, cinema enthusiasts and members of the media. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department.