No benefit shows for Sankranthi films in Telangana

On 26 Dec 2024 15:00:44

In a decisive move, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday turned down Tollywood luminaries' request

• Chief Minister Revanth Reddy rejects Tollywood’s plea for benefit shows

• Reiterates commitment to policy on ticket prices and law enforcement

• cabinet sub-committee to address industry issues

• Emphasizes plans to elevate Telangana’s film industry

In a decisive move, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday turned down Tollywood luminaries' request to allow benefit shows for Sankranthi films. Citing the State government’s existing policy on benefit shows and ticket price hikes, the Chief Minister maintained that there would be no revisions to the decision announced earlier in the Assembly.

The meeting, attended by prominent figures from the Telugu film industry, including FDC chairman Dil Raju, Allu Aravind, actors Daggubati Venkatesh and Akkineni Nagarjuna, revolved around issues like benefit shows, ticket affordability, and the development of the industry.

Referring to the recent stampede incident at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad, the Chief Minister asserted that law and order would not be compromised under any circumstances. He also warned against misbehavior by bouncers accompanying celebrities and stressed that it was the responsibility of stars to control their fans. "We cannot roll back our decisions on benefit shows and ticket price hikes. The government’s policy is aimed at making cinema accessible to the average audience," CM Revanth Reddy stated. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring ticket prices remain affordable and cautioned against troubling the government for exceptions. Cabinet Sub-Committee to resolve issues In a bid to address the concerns of the film industry effectively, the Chief Minister announced the formation of a cabinet sub-committee dedicated to resolving industry-related issues.

He encouraged the film industry to reciprocate by forming its own committee to facilitate better communication and collaboration with the government. Support for Tollywood Despite rejecting the request for benefit shows, the Chief Minister reassured the industry of the government’s support. "We aim to create a brand for the Telugu film industry. Along with IT and Pharma, the film sector holds significant importance for us.

Our government has introduced special GOs for eight films and established initiatives like the Gaddar Award to recognize cinematic excellence in Telangana," he added. Reddy also urged the film industry to promote social causes, including campaigns against drug abuse, and proposed initiatives to boost eco-tourism and temple tourism through film shoots in Telangana. Hyderabad as a global film hub Highlighting Hyderabad’s cosmopolitan appeal, the Chief Minister announced plans to attract national and international film industries to the city.

"We aim to position Hyderabad as a hub for Hollywood, Bollywood, and other industries through initiatives like major film conferences," he said, emphasizing the need for collaboration to elevate the Telugu film industry. The meeting also saw Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka, minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, and Chief Minister’s advisor Narender Reddy engage in discussions about future industry collaborations and developments.