Bhubaneswar: As part of efforts to revive the Odia film industry, the State government is set to unveil a special cinema policy and set up a film training institute. This announcement was made by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi while attending a special seminar on Odia cinema in Bhubaneswar on Friday.
He also suggested that filmmakers make movies on themes from Lord Jagannath and the Odia culture that has developed around him, the maritime history of Kalinga, tribal culture, stories of people’s struggle during natural calamities such as cyclones and floods, and the joys and sorrows of rural Odisha.
Majhi, who held a detailed discussion with eminent personalities and artistes from the cine world on the current condition and future of Odia cinema, said the government will soon implement a new film policy aiming to create Odia cinema’s own identity.
“Cinema is not just a medium of entertainment; it is a true reflection of the memory, culture, thoughts and soul of a nation,” the Chief Minister said.
Commenting on the popularity of Odia cinema, the chief minister said Odia movies should not be copied from elsewhere but should have their own voice and place. The seminar also discussed plans to boost film tourism by promoting scenic locations such as Chilika, Konark, and Koraput as primary shooting destinations. Additionally, the proposal suggests launching an international film festival of Odisha to showcase local talent to the world.
The chief minister said the cinema made on the theme of Odia life, culture, tradition, would attract viewers. Therefore, he said, there is a need for a film training institute in Odisha to impart skills in film production. Such an institute would be set up in Odisha, he said.
Majhi alleged that the previous BJD government, during its 24-year-long rule in the state, made no contribution towards the Odia film industry. “Now, an Odia Asmita government has been formed, which is committed to upholding the state’s culture, tradition and pride. Money will never be a barrier for the development of Odia films, and a strong film infrastructure will be created in the state very soon,” he said.
Odia Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryavanshi Suraj said the Odia film industry will play an important role in the centenary year of Odisha’s statehood in 2036.
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