Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has unveiled ambitious plans to launch a state-run OTT platform dedicated to Kannada cinema. The move comes as a response to concerns raised by leading Kannada filmmakers, including Rakshit Shetty and Rishab Shetty, who have struggled to secure releases on major streaming platforms.
Government Backs Kannada Cinema with Rs 3 Crore Allocation
For years, Kannada filmmakers have voiced concerns over the lack of digital space for their films. Now, the Karnataka government is stepping in with a Rs 3 crore allocation to create a repository of Kannada films, preserving works that showcase the state’s social, historical, and cultural values.
This initiative aims to ensure that Kannada cinema, often sidelined by mainstream streaming giants, has a dedicated space where audiences can access classic and contemporary films without restrictions. The repository will include both digital and non-digital formats, making it a comprehensive archive for future generations.
Cinema Industry Status and Ticket Price Cap
In a significant move for the film sector, Siddaramaiah announced that cinema will now be granted industry status in Karnataka. This change means filmmakers can now avail benefits under the state’s Industrial Policy, including subsidies, loans, and other financial incentives.
Another major announcement is a cap on movie ticket prices. To make cinema more affordable for the general public, the government has set a maximum ticket price of Rs 200 across all theatres and multiplexes in Karnataka, regardless of the language of the film being screened.
One sentence, but it means a lot for moviegoers.
New Multiplex Complex and Film City Plans
To boost infrastructure for the Kannada film industry, the government has revealed plans to develop a multiplex complex on 2.5 acres of land owned by the Karnataka Film Academy in Nandini Layout, Bengaluru. This project will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Additionally, the long-awaited Film City in Mysuru is finally taking shape. The state has transferred 150 acres of land to the Department of Information and Public Relations for this mega project. With an estimated cost of Rs 500 crore, this international-standard Film City will also be built under the PPP model. The aim is to attract large-scale film productions to Karnataka, boosting employment and tourism in the process.
A Bold Step for Kannada Cinema
The government’s push for a state-run OTT platform is a clear signal that Kannada cinema is getting the attention it deserves. By addressing challenges faced by filmmakers and making films more accessible to audiences, these initiatives could reshape the industry’s future.
All eyes are now on how these plans unfold and what they mean for the Kannada film ecosystem in the long run.
