Odisha’s Silver Screen Sequel: CM Unveils Film Policy Push

BHUBANESWAR — In a major move to restore the glory of the Odia film industry, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Friday that the state government is drafting a comprehensive new film policy. The declaration came during the joint ceremony for the 35th and 36th Odisha State Film Awards, held at the Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Centre, where the state honored 62 artists and technicians for their contributions across 2023 and 2024.

Addressing the film fraternity, CM Majhi emphasized that Odia cinema is a cornerstone of the state’s cultural identity. "The government is committed to the holistic development of Odia cinema and to safeguarding the rights and interests of our artists," he stated, signaling a shift toward more robust state intervention in the sector.

Kalinga Studio to Become Digital Hub

A central pillar of the CM’s vision is the modernization of Kalinga Studio. The government has committed to upgrading the historic facility into a premier digital and post-production hub. By integrating international-standard technology and training facilities, the administration aims to curb the migration of local talent to other states, providing young professionals with the infrastructure to compete at a national level.

Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain further noted that the film sector is being viewed as a key contributor to the state’s "orange economy," with the government looking to bridge the gap between creative talent and industrial scale.

Protecting Local Cinema in Theaters

Amid concerns regarding the displacement of regional content, CM Majhi issued a firm warning to theater owners and distributors. He declared that "strict action" will be taken against those who remove Odia films from cinema halls to favor other language productions.

The administration’s stance is clear: the success of the industry depends on a symbiotic relationship between producers and the public. By prioritizing content rooted in local stories—a trend recently popularized by successful films like DAMaN, Pratikshya, and Pushkara—the CM believes audiences will naturally return to theaters to support the thousands of technicians, writers, and daily-wage workers who sustain the industry.

Why It Matters

For the Odia film industry, these announcements provide a much-needed roadmap for professionalization and economic stability. By focusing on post-production infrastructure, the state aims to keep the value chain within its borders. For citizens and cinema fans, the government’s intervention in theater allocation ensures that local stories remain accessible, preventing regional culture from being crowded out by larger commercial interests.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Film Policy: A new, comprehensive film policy is in the final stages of drafting to support artistic rights and industry growth.

• Infrastructure Upgrade: Kalinga Studio is being transformed into a world-class digital production and post-production hub.

• Awards: 62 individuals were honored across 62 categories for their work in 2023 and 2024.

• Top Honors: The prestigious Mohan Sundar Dev Goswami Samman was awarded to veteran actor Shyamalendu Bhattacharya (2023) and actress Namrata Das (2024).

FAQ

What is the objective of the new Odisha film policy? The policy aims to revitalize the industry by providing better infrastructure, protecting the interests of artists, and promoting Odisha as a prime location for cinema tourism.

What action has the government promised regarding theaters? The CM has warned that strict administrative action will be taken against theater owners who remove Odia films to prioritize films from other language industries.

How will the Kalinga Studio upgrade help local talent? By providing digital and post-production facilities locally, the studio aims to stop the "brain drain" of technicians and artists to other states, keeping employment and opportunities within Odisha.

Source: Office of the Chief Minister of Odisha, Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture, UNI India