Bhubaneswar, May 16: The Odisha government is preparing a series of measures to revive and strengthen the Odia film industry, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announcing that a new Film Policy will soon be introduced in the state.
Addressing a special interaction programme with filmmakers, actors and technicians at Culture Bhavan on Friday, the Chief Minister described Odia cinema as a reflection of the state’s identity, culture and emotions. He said cinema is not just a medium of entertainment, but also a powerful representation of a society’s heritage and consciousness.
Emphasising the need for originality in filmmaking, Majhi said Odia cinema should focus on its own stories instead of imitating other industries. He highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural and historical backdrop, including the legacy of Lord Jagannath, Kalinga’s maritime history, tribal traditions, rural life, riverine culture and people’s struggles during natural disasters, as potential themes for meaningful cinema.
The Chief Minister also announced plans to establish a film training institute in Odisha to develop skilled professionals in filmmaking and related fields. Criticising the previous government for neglecting the industry, he asserted that the present government is committed to promoting Odia identity and assured that lack of funds would not hinder the growth of the film sector.
Odisha’s Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the Odia film industry would play a vital role during Odisha’s centenary celebrations in 2036. He expressed confidence that the discussions would help shape the future roadmap for the industry.
The event was attended by actor-turned-politicians Akash Das Nayak and Sidhanta Mahapatra, senior officials, members of the Odisha film fraternity and several noted actors and technicians, including Anubhav Mohanty, Anu Choudhury, Pushpa Panda and Harihar Mahapatra.
During the interaction, the Chief Minister discussed various issues affecting the film industry and assured the stakeholders that the government would work towards finding long-term solutions for the sector’s development.
