Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi on 15 May held detailed deliberations with Cine Artists to revive the Odia film industry, which is currently facing a critical juncture.
Shri Majhi was welcomed by Dr.Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Secretary Odia Language, Literature and Culture in presence of Minister Shri Surjyabanshi Suraj.
Filmmakers and cultural leaders have call for a massive overhaul to compete with national powerhouses like the Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam industries.
Experts point out that despite Odisha’s rich history, music, and literature, the local cinema has struggled due to a lack of original storytelling and a tendency to copy films from other languages. Current critiques highlight that a significant portion of Odia cinema is stuck in repetitive formulas and low-quality production, which fails to satisfy modern audiences who are now accustomed to global content on OTT platforms.
To address these challenges, a comprehensive roadmap for revival has been proposed, focusing on institutional strength and creative integrity. Key suggestions include the establishment of a world-class Odisha Film City, similar to Ramoji Film City, and the creation of specialized film schools and script labs to train the next generation of talent. There is a strong emphasis on prioritizing writers, as successful industries like Malayalam cinema have thrived by giving supreme respect to the story and the screenwriter.
From a policy perspective, advocates are calling for a long-term Odisha Film Policy that includes financial incentives such as subsidies, tax exemptions, and cash rebates for films shot within the state. There are also plans to boost film tourism by promoting scenic locations like Chilika, Konark, and Koraput as primary shooting destinations. Additionally, the proposal suggests launching an International Film Festival of Odisha to showcase local talent to the world.
The future vision for the industry involves embracing modern technology, including VFX and animation hubs, while remaining deeply rooted in Odia soil. By adapting the works of legendary Odia authors like Manoj Das and Pratibha Ray into films, the industry aims to find its unique voice and create a global identity over the next decade. As cultural leaders note, the goal is to transform Odia cinema from mere entertainment into a powerful medium of cultural pride and economic growth.