Odisha Plans New Film Policy to Revitalise Odia Cinema, CM Announces at State Film Awards

Bhubaneswar: Signalling renewed support for the regional film industry, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday announced that the Odisha government is preparing to introduce a new Film Policy aimed at strengthening Odia cinema, supporting artists and creating a more enabling environment for film production in the state.

The announcement was made during the 35th and 36th State Film Awards ceremony held at Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre, where the Chief Minister said the government is working towards creating long-term institutional and technical support for the industry.

Majhi said consultations have already been held with members of the film fraternity to understand the evolving needs of the sector and identify measures required to expand opportunities for filmmakers and artists. He indicated that the proposed policy would focus on artist welfare, production quality and modern infrastructure support.

Describing Odia cinema as an important expression of the state’s cultural identity, the Chief Minister reflected on its rich legacy that began with Sita Bibaha in 1936. He noted that over the decades, films rooted in Odisha’s social and cultural landscape have earned recognition beyond the state.

Referring to contemporary successes, he said recent films such as Daman, Pratiksha, Shala Budha, Pushkara, Bou Buttu Bhoota and Bara Badhu have demonstrated the growing appeal of locally driven storytelling and helped create fresh visibility for Odia cinema at the national level.

Highlighting changing industry dynamics, Majhi said advances in cinematography, digital technology, sound design and OTT platforms are opening new possibilities for regional cinema. He added that Kalinga Studio is emerging as a growing hub for digital production and post-production facilities and could help retain creative talent within Odisha.

Calling for wider collaboration, the Chief Minister encouraged producers and sponsors to invest in films that reflect Odia society while adopting contemporary presentation and global production standards. He also urged audiences to support Odia films in theatres, noting that the industry sustains a large ecosystem of technicians, writers and workers.

Majhi further asserted that the government would act firmly if Odia films face unfair displacement from cinema halls to accommodate other releases.

During the event, the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department honoured senior actor Shyamlendu Bhattacharya with the Mohan Sundar Deb Goswami Award for 2023 and senior actress Namrata Das for 2024. Both awardees received cash prizes of ₹5 lakh each. Awards across 62 categories for the two years were also presented.

Industries Minister Sampada Chandra Swain said the growth of the Odia film sector would contribute to expanding Odisha’s Orange Economy, while the Biju Patnaik Film and Television Institute would play a role in building skilled human resources for the industry.

The event was attended by ministers, public representatives, film personalities, artists, technicians and members of the cultural community.