The Malayalam film industry is facing a severe financial storm, prompting its apex body to take drastic action. The Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce has announced a complete boycott of all government-owned theatres under the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), starting from January. This decision comes as a direct response to what the Chamber describes as a decade of government neglect and an urgent need for policy support to save the struggling exhibition sector.
A Crisis in Numbers: Few Hits, Mounting Losses
The Chamber revealed a stark picture of the industry's health in 2024. Out of a total of 184 films released this year, fewer than ten have been commercially successful. This abysmal success rate has pushed theatre owners, especially those running government venues, into a severe financial crisis. Many are struggling to keep their operations afloat. The Chamber emphasized that without immediate intervention, the survival of these cultural hubs is at risk.
Core Demands: Tax Relief and Sustainable Policies
The boycott is a warning protest to force the government to address long-pending demands. The Chamber's president, Anil Thomas, outlined the key issues at a press conference. The primary demand is the removal of the entertainment tax levied by local bodies, which is collected in addition to the Goods and Services Tax (GST). This double taxation, they argue, places an unfair burden on theatres.
Other critical demands include:
- Introducing a special, reduced electricity tariff for cinema theatres.
- Formulating policies that actively support the film industry's growth.
- Creating a sustainable framework for theatre operations.
The Chamber pointed out that despite promises from Minister Saji Cheriyan for discussions after a conclave, no concrete talks or actions have materialized.
Impact of the Boycott and Industry Resilience
The decision to stop providing films to KSFDC theatres from January will have significant repercussions. These government-owned theatres are spread across Kerala and rely on a steady stream of new releases. The boycott will directly impact their operations and, consequently, the revenue of the state film development corporation.
Thomas warned that if their demands continue to be ignored, the Chamber is prepared to escalate its protest with even stronger actions. He reminded the government that the film industry is a major contributor to the state's tax revenue, a fact that has been overlooked for over ten years.
Amidst the turmoil, there is a note of confidence in the industry's core strength. Actor Kalesh Ramanand, known for his role in 'Hridayam', noted in an interview that the Malayalam film industry has undergone significant change. He attributed its resilience, even during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, to a powerful focus on content quality. This shift towards substance over spectacle is seen as the key to the industry's potential recovery, promising a future with more quality-driven projects.
