In a significant push for the Telugu film industry, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu emphasized the State government's commitment to transforming Hyderabad into the national hub of the film industry. Speaking at the jury members' meeting for the Gaddar Film Awards held at the Secretariat on Wednesday, the Deputy CM highlighted Hyderabad's unique advantages for fostering film industries across all Indian languages.

"Cities like Bombay, Kolkata, and Chennai have limited scope for expansion, but Hyderabad offers favorable conditions for growth and flourishing," stated Bhatti Vikramarka. He envisioned a future where film productions from various regions relocate to Hyderabad, generating substantial employment opportunities for the state's youth, including technicians, writers, and directors. This shift, he added, would position Hyderabad as a global center for the film market. The government is preparing a comprehensive blueprint to realize this ambition, ensuring sustained support for the sector.

The Deputy CM criticized the previous administration for neglecting film awards over decades, contrasting it with the current Praja Government under Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, which has revived these honors to encourage cinema's role in social change. "Cinema wields immense power in driving societal transformation," he remarked.

Paying tribute to the legendary folk singer and revolutionary artist Gaddar, Bhatti Vikramarka described him as "a great soul who dedicated his life to society through art." He noted that Telangana embodies art, revolution, sensitivity, love, and compassion, qualities Gaddar exemplified by showcasing the region's culture globally. To honor his legacy, the government initiated the Gaddar Film Awards last year, aiming to promote meaningful cinema.

Assuring transparency and merit-based selection, the Deputy CM praised last year's jury for their exemplary process, which garnered widespread acclaim. Jury members were appointed through consultations with stakeholders via the Film Development Corporation (FDC), prioritizing experience, commitment, and passion from eminent film personalities. The government pledged full cooperation.

Bhatti Vikramarka urged the jury to prioritize films blending commercial appeal with strong social messages, fostering impactful storytelling in future productions. Screenings for the awards will commence on February 6, culminating in a grand ceremony on February 19, coinciding with Ugadi. Last year's event was a resounding success, sending a powerful global message, and this year's event will be even more elaborate, with autonomy and resources provided to the FDC and Information & Public Relations (I&PR) Department.

The meeting was attended by FDC Chairman Dil Raju, I&PR Commissioner Priyanka, FDC Executive Director Kishore Babu, Tanikella Bharani, K.S. Rama Rao, Roja Ramani, and Ashok Kumar.

Cities like Bombay, Kolkata, and Chennai have limited scope for expansion, but Hyderabad offers favorable conditions for growth and flourishing

Bhatti Vikramarka, Telangana Deputy CM