Bhubaneswar, Nov 10: Bhubaneswar will host Odisha’s first-ever Film Preservation Workshop from 12th to 19th of this month, organized by the Film Heritage Foundation in collaboration with the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF) and the state government. The initiative aims to preserve ancient Odia films and raise awareness about film conservation, a largely unexplored area in the state.

At a press conference held at the Bhubaneswar Press Club, Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, founder of the Film Heritage Foundation, highlighted the importance of preserving Odia cinema. He noted that very few people are aware of the state’s rich film heritage, and that there are currently no policies or frameworks for film preservation in Odisha. Dungarpur emphasized that iconic Odia films, such as ‘Maya Miriga’, are on par with internationally acclaimed works like Japan’s Ozu films.

The workshop, to be held at Kalabhumi, Bhubaneswar, will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. It will feature participation from eminent figures from the film industry, including actress Waheeda Rehman. Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan will also join the inauguration via video conference.

Dungarpur stated that the workshop will focus on the creation of an archive for Odia films and stressed the need for clear policies and regulations to promote and preserve the state’s cinematic heritage. He added that the broader goal of the initiative is to promote Odia culture and heritage across the state and beyond.