Small Telugu Film Directors Appeal to Dil Raju Over Industry Monopoly
Hyderabad, Nov. 8: Small and independent filmmakers from the Telugu film industry have submitted a grievance petition to Film Federation of Telangana Chairman and senior producer Dil Raju, seeking immediate action against what they described as monopolistic practices by major producers and distributors.
In the petition, representatives of small directors, producers, technicians, and film staff , Director Sheraaz Mehdi said that a few influential individuals and production houses dominate the Telugu film ecosystem.
Sheraaz Mehdi alleged that this dominance deprives small filmmakers of access to theaters, distribution networks, and fair promotional platforms.
The petition, signed by several independent filmmakers under the leadership of director Sheraz Mehdi, urged Dil Raju to ensure a transparent and equal system for all filmmakers.
Small Filmmakers Seek Equal Opportunity and Federation Intervention
“Under your leadership, the Federation has protected industry workers. We request your intervention before this crisis deepens,” the letter stated.
The filmmakers highlighted key grievances, including denial of theaters, exploitation of small staff, and lack of support for small-budget films in audio, satellite, and OTT platforms.
Mehdi demanded the Federation issue circulars ensuring minimum theater allocation for small films in multiplexes and single screens, including PVR, Inox, Imax, and Asian cinemas.
Sheraaz Mehdi also sought parity in digital projection charges, noting that current QuBe and UFO rates are unaffordable for small producers.
The petition proposed reduced rates for films under ₹1 crore budget.
Additionally, the directors requested guidance to secure subsidies and grants from government bodies such as the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), and the Telangana State Film Development Corporation (TSFDC).
Mehdi noted that small and debut filmmakers deserve similar support offered to small-scale industries.
Sheraaz Mehdi also raised concerns about delays at the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), saying that procedural delays at the Hyderabad regional office affect small producers’ release schedules and OTT contracts.
The group suggested a 15-day certification cap for low-budget films and an online-only review system to speed up approvals.
The petition concluded with an appeal for unity in the Telugu film industry and sought the Federation’s protection for small filmmakers, calling the body the “guardian of all cinema workers, irrespective of status or financial power.”
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates
More Stories…..
Committee Headed By Retired Judge To Take Up Reorganisation Of Districts In Telangana; Report In Six Months
Hyderabad, Jan 13 (Maxim News): Chief Minister Revanth Reddy made a key announcement. He revealed that a committee will be formed with retired judges and retired officers on the reorganization of districts. He said that a report will be submitted on this within at least six months.
