Maharashtra Government Charts Ambitious Path for Marathi Cinema Growth
The Maharashtra government has revealed a comprehensive strategy to strengthen Marathi cinema across the state. This ambitious plan focuses on expanding infrastructure and improving accessibility for both filmmakers and audiences.
New Film Cities Planned for Nagpur and Nashik
Prashant Sajnikar, joint managing director of the Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation, made the announcement during a session at the Pune International Film Festival. The event took place at Pavillion Mall on Senapati Bapat Road on January 17.
The government has already initiated the process to establish Chitranagari film cities in Nagpur and Nashik. These new facilities will build upon the legacy of existing infrastructure while catering to emerging talent pools in different regions.
Sajnikar emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring Marathi cinema progresses and receives strong audience support. "We want to ensure Marathi films reach a wider audience, beyond the urban space," he stated.
Policy Reforms and Infrastructure Upgrades
The roadmap includes several key policy changes and infrastructure improvements:
- Amending the Cinema Regulation Act to reduce ticket prices for Marathi films
- Exploring schemes for low-cost theatres and reviving Touring Talkies
- Screening films in drama auditoriums across Maharashtra, similar to Mumbai's model
- Increasing the number of screens available for Marathi films
The government plans to screen films in drama auditoriums throughout the state, following the successful model implemented in Mumbai. This approach aims to make Marathi cinema more accessible to audiences in various regions.
Building on Existing Infrastructure
Maharashtra has a history of decentralizing film infrastructure. The Chitranagari film city in Kolhapur, established in 1984, was among the first initiatives to support Marathi film production. This facility provides shooting and post-production services across 75 acres near Morewadi.
Recent investments have significantly upgraded this facility:
- In 2022, the government approved development works worth approximately Rs30 crore for new sets, training facilities, and artist accommodation
- In 2023, an additional Rs44.4 crore was allocated for major infrastructure upgrades including training facilities, new sets, lodging for artists and technicians, and state-of-the-art production equipment
Financial Support and International Recognition
The government operates a 28-member screening committee that grants subsidies to Marathi films through a transparent grading system. Films are categorized into A, B, and C grades to determine subsidy amounts.
Over the last few years, Rs86.4 crore has been distributed to producers, benefiting talented artists from rural areas. The government has also launched Chitrapataka, an international-level Marathi film festival.
Marathi films receive special support at prestigious festivals:
- Films are sent to the Film Bazaar sections of festivals like Cannes and IFFI
- Films that win national or international awards receive double the subsidy amount
Additional Initiatives and Future Plans
Sajnikar highlighted several other initiatives supporting Marathi cinema:
- Mumbai Film City, now completing 50 years, offers a 50% concession for Marathi films and serials
- This eco-friendly facility features 16 studios and 70 outdoor locations
- Upcoming screenwriting and filmmaking workshops at Chitrangana in Goregaon, Mumbai
- Expansion of the Film Appreciation Club across Maharashtra
The state's comprehensive film policy will be announced soon, according to Sajnikar. This policy will further strengthen the government's support for Marathi cinema and its growth across Maharashtra.
