Planned Long Before Crisis: Pranay Jethy Defends Timing of 5 Star Film Awards”
"We Prioritize Our Nation: Jethy Clarifies 5 Star Film Awards Planning Timeline"
Bhubaneswar: Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, some sections have raised concerns regarding the timing of the 5 Star Film Awards 2025, organized by RR Events & Cine Production in Singapore. Critics questioned the appropriateness of holding such a grand event during a period of geopolitical strain.
Addressing these concerns, Pranay Jethy, a producer and media planner associated with the event, clarified that the awards were planned long before the current situation unfolded.
“We all love our country and always prioritize our nation above everything else,”* Jethy said. “The event was conceptualized and scheduled well in advance. Its aim is to promote the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and celebrate the achievements of the Odia film industry.”
Organized in collaboration with the Odia Society of Singapore, the event is led by Ramesh Barik, Managing Director of RR Events & Cine Production. Following the resounding success of its previous edition in Dubai, the 2025 awards aimed to offer an even grander celebration of Odia cinema and talent.
Held on May 10, 2025, at the Quantum Arena, One World International School in Singapore, the event featured a star-studded lineup of Ollywood celebrities. Among the attendees were Sabyasachi Mishra, Swaraj Barik, Harihar Mohapatra, Papu Pom Pom, Archita Sahu, Elina Samantaray, Devasis Patra, Apsara Rani, Swapna Priyadarshini, Namrata Thapa, and Usasi Mishra, among others.
Despite external criticisms, organizers emphasized that the event remains a cultural initiative aimed at uniting the Odia diaspora and spotlighting regional talent on a global stage.