Maharashtra Govt Forms Panel To Ensure More Screen Time For Marathi Films In Multiplexes

Mumbai: To address the ongoing concerns of Marathi filmmakers regarding inadequate sreen time in multiplexes, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced the formation of a government-level committee.

The committee will not only work to secure additional shows for Marathi films but also suggest long-term solutions to strengthen the Marathi film industry. The Deputy CM emphasised that the state government is committed to the survival and growth of Marathi cinema, and has directed the newly formed committee to submit its report within six weeks.

A meeting was held at the Mantralaya under the leadership of Deputy CM Shinde with various stakeholders from the Marathi film industry. Discussions were held on issues like sudden removal of Marathi films from theaters within three days, no refunds despite advance payments for week-long screenings, arbitrary changes or cancellations of show timings, delays in getting censor approvals despite repeated follow-ups.

The meeting included producers, distributors, film unions, and multiplex owners. Representatives from political film wings like MNS, Shiv Sena, and NCP were also present. The proposed committee will be chaired by the additional chief secretary of the home department and include principal secretaries of the appeal and security, urban development, culture, and transport departments. Moreover, representatives from the Marathi film industry – producers, distributors, and multiplex owners and officials from Film City and the Maharashtra Film Corporation will also be part of the committee.

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The committee is expected to submit a comprehensive report to the government within a month and a half, based on which the final policy will be drafted. Shinde concluded by reiterating, “Only when Marathi filmmakers survive will Marathi cinema thrive. The government stands firmly with the industry.”