Hyderabad: Plans are afoot to transform Hyderabad into India’s leading film city, as the state government eyes a major boost for the industry with a fresh blueprint for development. Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu, addressing a crucial meeting of the sub-committee on film industry development, directed officials to draft a Detailed Project Report (DPR) that would chart the city’s rise as a global film hub.
The meeting, which drew ministers Komatireddy Venkat Reddy and Duddilla Sridhar Babu alongside top film officials, set the tone for a transformative phase in Telangana’s cinematic ambitions. “We want Hyderabad to be the magnet for film legends, directors, and technicians from every corner of the country and beyond,” Bhatti asserted, underscoring the state’s commitment to building a world-class film city.
Film producers currently face a maze of permissions from police, fire, and municipal departments that often slows down shoots and dampens creativity. To address these bottlenecks, the sub-committee resolved to establish a streamlined single-window clearance system. Bhatti tasked the Film Development Corporation with appointing a dedicated officer to fast-track approvals, ensuring filmmakers can focus on their craft rather than red tape.
The Deputy CM also saw opportunities in opening up the state’s tourist destinations to filmmakers, predicting a vibrant synergy between cinema and tourism that could give both sectors a much-needed fillip.
Bhatti didn’t hold back on criticising the exorbitant prices of food and other essentials sold at cinema canteens, which he said hit common moviegoers the hardest. He called for immediate measures to bring these costs down, promising a more affordable experience for the public.
Land allocation also featured in the meeting. With 50 acres already earmarked for the Film Development Corporation, Bhatti asked for an update on the current status of this land before the committee’s next sitting. He also recommended that the RCS Committee, which oversees Chitrapuri Colony a housing project for film workers—be invited to participate in future discussions.
On a festive note, Bhatti urged that the Telangana Gaddar Film Awards, scheduled for the 14th, be celebrated with unmatched grandeur. He stressed that the event should honour Telugu film icons as well as distinguished actors from across the nation, making it a star-studded affair befitting the industry’s spirit.
The session saw the presence of key figures from the film and administrative circles, including FDC Chairman Dil Raju, Home Department Special Chief Secretary Ravi Gupta, Information Commissioner Harish, and FDC Director Kishore Babu, all poised to support the city’s cinematic leap forward.
