CityLightBuzz: Hyderabad: Hero and filmmaker Shiraz Mehdi has made sensational allegations over the difficulties faced by small films in the Telugu film industry. He alleged that a mafia-like system is operating within the industry and that small producers and filmmakers are facing discrimination, exploitation and several hurdles at every stage.
Shiraz Mehdi, who produced and acted as the lead in ‘O Andala Rakshasi’, expressed his anguish over what he claimed was unfair treatment in the allocation of theatres for his film. He also alleged that he had received threats but made it clear that he would not step back from his fight.
Speaking at a media conference held at the Somajiguda Press Club in Hyderabad, Shiraz Mehdi said that he had produced his film with considerable effort and with the support of experienced technical professionals. He expressed confidence that the film has the potential to achieve strong results if it receives adequate theatres and reaches audiences properly.
‘Small Films Are Being Suppressed’
Shiraz Mehdi alleged that securing theatres for release has become one of the biggest challenges for small producers. According to him, priority is being given to big-budget films while smaller productions are being sidelined. He said he has already conducted more than 40 press meets and given over 50 interviews to raise awareness about the problems faced by small filmmakers. “We will not remain silent if small films are suppressed. We will fight as far as necessary for our rights,” he said.
Allegations Over Qube and UFO Charges
Shiraz Mehdi also raised concerns over the financial burden allegedly imposed on small producers in the name of digital projection and other release-related services.
Criticising digital cinema service providers such as Qube and UFO, he alleged that services which could cost around ₹2,000 per week are being charged at approximately ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 per theatre.He claimed that such charges are placing an additional financial burden on small producers who are already struggling to recover their investments.
Strong Remarks Against the Film Chamber
Shiraz Mehdi also criticised the Film Chamber, alleging that it has failed to adequately support small producers and directors.
He claimed that prominent multiplex operators, including INOX, PVR and Asian Films, initially indicated that theatres would be provided for his film but allegedly backed out at the last moment.He further stated that legal notices had already been issued in connection with the matter and claimed that summons had also been issued by the High Court.
‘CM Revanth Reddy Should Intervene’
Shiraz Mehdi appealed to Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to take special note of the problems faced by small films and filmmakers in the Telugu film industry.
He also urged the government to introduce welfare measures, including health insurance, for workers who depend on the film industry for their livelihood, including drivers, makeup artists, technicians and junior artists.
‘I Will Not Stop the Fight, Even If I Lose My Life’
Addressing the alleged threats he has received, Shiraz Mehdi said that he would not back down.
“Even if I lose my life, my fight for the rights of small films will not stop. If necessary, I will hold 100 press meets and organise rallies. I will continue this fight until we achieve victory,” he declared.
He clarified that his fight was not limited to ‘O Andala Rakshasi’, but was also aimed at raising issues concerning the rights and opportunities of small producers, directors, artists and
technicians.
‘I Will Release the Film No Matter What’
Despite the challenges, Shiraz Mehdi said he would not give up and announced that ‘O Andala Rakshasi’ would be re-released soon.
His comments regarding theatre allocation for small films, digital service charges and the role of the Film Chamber have sparked discussion within the Telugu film industry.
