GECs
Ficci-FPGI seminar discusses freedom of trade in films
MUMBAI: The global entertainment industry generates $1.2 trillion revenue every year. However, the Indian industry – which contributes in a big way to the global market – generates only $5 billion revenue.
Why is our industry constantly in crisis? Most importantly, how can it get more dynamic and become a part of the world platform?
To seek answers to these questions among others, Ficci (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) and FPGI (Film Producers Guild of India) together organised a seminar ‘Freedom to Trade in the Changing Business Environment’ as a part of their Frames 2004 Knowledge Series in Mumbai today.
The seminar attempted to delineate the various rights of a film which can lead to multiple revenue streams in the industry. It also examined the role of associations in the industry.
In his introductory speech, Ficci chairman Yash Chopra said, “While releasing a film, though the producer should have complete rights on revenue streams that can be generated from it, the associations concerned often put bindings on him.” Chopra termed these restrictions as being against the spirit of ‘free trade’.
Another aspect highlighted during the discussions was the lack of planning in the film industry. The mentality of the distributors, producers and exhibitors pulling each other down – “the crab mentality” as Ficci’s co-chairman Kunal Dasgupta put it – has to change, if the entertainment industry has to rise, it was pointed out.
While discussing the ‘Synergy between television and film industry’ Dasgupta envisaged a future where
“movies won’t be restrained to cinema halls. Plasma TV is becoming as cheap as Rs 45,000. With that coming around, home viewing will be a different experience.” Dasgupta was of the view that free trade in the film industry is no more an option but is imperative. Releasing every film on pay per TV, DVD, Pay TV and cable should become legal, he maintained.
Predicting a television and broadband revolution in the near future, Dasgupta opined, “Films should now be dealt with and marketed on television like other TV soaps or even consumer products.” Cross-media promotion is becoming a very important part of business, he said.
Summing up, FPGI president Amit Khanna stressed on some issues that he said needed addressing on a war footing:
* Geographical dispensation for industry
* Freedom of trade: People contributing most to the kitty should lay down rules
* Full fledge marketing initiative should be encouraged
* Interaction between the serious players of the business should increase.
GECs
Asianet Television Awards 2026 celebrates women power in Malayalam TV
“She is the Colour” theme honours icons as ceremony airs on March 14 and 15 at 7 PM.
MUMBAI: If television lights up living rooms, this year Asianet decided to let women provide the colour. The Asianet Television Awards 2026 turned the spotlight firmly on women empowerment with the theme “She is the Colour”, celebrating the strength, resilience and achievements of women who continue to shape society and the Malayalam entertainment industry.
The ceremony honoured several distinguished personalities whose journeys have left a lasting cultural imprint. Among them was legendary playback singer Vimala Varma, widely recognised as the first Malayalam playback singer. The evening also paid tribute to Padma Shri awardees Devaki Amma and Vimala Menon for their exceptional contributions in their respective fields.
Leading women from the Malayalam film industry were also recognised during the event, including actor Shweta Menon, who currently serves as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, and National Award winning actor Surabhi Lakshmi.
The awards ceremony brought together a glittering lineup of actors and industry figures, including Jayasurya, Vijay Babu, Asha Sarath, Lena, Esther Anil, Anumol, Akhila Bhargavan, Sarayu Mohan, Prajod Kalabhavan, Gayathri Suresh, Sabumon Abdusamad, Swasika, Tini Tom, Sijoy Varghese, Kailash, Veena Nandakumar, Sabareesh Varma, Ansiba Hassan and Dinesh Prabhakar. Kishan Kumar, executive vice president Malayalam at JioStar, was also present at the event.
Beyond individual recognitions, the awards celebrated excellence across Malayalam television, acknowledging artists and technicians whose work continues to drive the industry forward.
The evening also offered plenty of spectacle, with elaborate dance performances, stunt acts and comedy skits performed by popular television and film personalities, turning the ceremony into a full fledged entertainment showcase.
Viewers will get to watch the celebrations when the Asianet Television Awards 2026 air on Asianet on March 14 and 15, Saturday and Sunday, from 7 pm onwards, bringing the star studded tribute to homes across Kerala and beyond.
