Bhubaneswar, June 26 (IANS) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday said Odia cinema is a symbol of the state’s cultural identity, reiterating that the Odisha government will soon introduce a new Film Policy to ensure the holistic development of the Odia film industry and provide greater security and support to artists.

Addressing the 35th and 36th State Film Awards Ceremony at the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, Majhi said Odia cinema is a symbol of the state’s identity. He added that the government will formulate a new Film Policy very soon to promote the overall development of the movie industry and the welfare and protection of artists.

He said the government recently held cordial discussions with members of the Odia film fraternity on the current status and development of Odia cinema and is committed to ensuring artists’ welfare and providing technical support for quality film production. A major announcement in this regard will be made soon.

He assured that the state would soon make important announcements aimed at protecting artists and promoting the production of high-quality films.

Highlighting the rich legacy of Odia cinema, Majhi recalled that Odisha became a separate province in 1936, the same year the first Odia feature film, Sita Bibaha, was produced by Mohan Sundar Deb Goswami. He said classics such as Maya Miriga, Bhukha, Sesha Shrabana and Hakim Babu have showcased Odisha’s culture on the global stage.

Recent critically acclaimed films, including Daman, Pratikshya, Sala Budha, Pushkara, Bou Buttu Bhuta and Bara Badhu, have brought renewed national recognition to Odia cinema, he noted, describing it as the beginning of a “new sunrise” for the industry.

Emphasising the importance of technology and OTT platforms, Majhi said Odisha’s young filmmakers have demonstrated world-class skills in cinematography, sound design and visual effects (VFX).

He announced that Kalinga Studio would be transformed into one of the country’s leading digital and post-production hubs, enabling local talent to access advanced facilities without leaving the state.

He also invited filmmakers from across India to explore Odisha’s scenic landscapes for film production and promote cinema tourism in the state.

Appealing to both filmmakers and audiences to support Odia cinema, Majhi urged producers to create films rooted in Odisha’s culture while embracing modern storytelling. He encouraged audiences to watch Odia films in theatres, noting that the livelihood of hundreds of technicians, writers and workers depends on every film produced.

Issuing a strong warning, he said the government would take strict action if Odia films are removed from theatres to make way for the screening or promotion of other films.

He asserted that the government is fully committed to safeguarding the interests of the Odia film industry.

During the ceremony, senior actor Shyamalendu Bhattacharya received the Mohan Sundar Deb Goswami Samman for 2023, while senior actress Namrata Das was honoured with the same award for 2024. Both recipients received a cash award of Rs 5 lakh each.

The Chief Minister also presented State Film Awards across 62 categories for the years 2023 and 2024, recognising excellence in various fields of filmmaking.

–IANS

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