Maharashtra Government to Establish Committee for More Marathi Film Screenings
Mumbai – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has instructed officials to create a government-level committee to address the scarcity of multiplex showtimes for Marathi films, aiming to secure a lasting solution for the regional cinema industry. The directive, announced on Tuesday, requires the committee to deliver its recommendations within six weeks, emphasizing the state’s commitment to preserving Marathi cinema, according to news agency PTI.
The decision follows a high-level meeting chaired by Shinde, attended by Marathi film producers, distributors, and representatives from cinema employee organizations. Discussions focused on several challenges faced by the Marathi film industry, including limited screen availability in multiplexes, abrupt removal of films within days without prior notice, non-refunded advance fees, and issues with censor board approvals. The meeting also addressed the frequent last-minute changes or cancellations of Marathi film showtimes, which have hindered the industry’s growth.
Shinde underscored the government’s dedication to promoting Marathi cinema, stating that its survival depends on the success of its filmmakers. “It is our policy to ensure Marathi films thrive,” he said, as reported by PTI, adding that the committee’s formation aims to implement permanent measures to support the industry.
The initiative comes amid ongoing concerns about multiplexes prioritizing Hindi films over regional productions. Last week, Sandeep Deshpande, Mumbai unit president of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, accused certain theaters of deliberately reducing Marathi film screenings to accommodate Hindi releases, prompting swift government action, per PTI reports.
The committee’s recommendations are expected to address these grievances and propose strategies to ensure equitable screen time for Marathi films. Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and representatives from major multiplex chains, including Cinepolis and PVR, are anticipated to play key roles in the discussions, as noted in earlier reports by PTI. This move signals a broader effort by the Maharashtra government to bolster the regional film industry and ensure its cultural and economic viability.