Movies
Maharashtra govt orders multiplexes to allocate primetime slot for Marathi films
MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has issued a directive to all multiplexes in the state to screen at least one Marathi language movie at their properties in the prime time slot of 6 – 9 pm.
Home Minister RR Patil was quoted in a DNA report saying, “Hereafter, it will be mandatory for all 27 multiplexes in Mumbai to give Marathi cinema prime time slots. The permission for new multiplexes will be sanctioned only if they dedicate a separate screen entirely to Marathi cinema.”
The move comes in a bid to give a fillip to the state’s Marathi film industry. Actor Riteish Deshmukh, who made his Marathi film debut with Lai Bhaari, took to Twitter to welcome this news.
It may be noted that the BJP government has also made it mandatory for theatres to play the national anthem as well as a song that honours the father of Indian cinema – Dadasaheb Phalke.
The order, issued by Culture Minister Vinod Tawde on Tuesday, also mentioned that the word ‘Bombay’ will be replaced with ‘Mumbai’ in all the 199 occurrences in the laws on culture and entertainment.
It may be recalled that the Maharashtra government led by Devendra Fadnavis had recently offered benefits to private players to make Marathi language films.
A Delhi based advocate Ishkaran S. Bhandari tweeted, “Doubt whether Govt order of 6-9 pm time slot only for Marathi movie in multiplex is Constitutionally Valid. Should be violative of 19(1)(g).”
It remains to be seen how the exhibition industry reacts to this bit of news.
Hindi
Rajesh Ramaswamy exits The Script Room to focus on filmmaking journey
Ad filmmaker steps away from own venture to pursue direction and storytelling
MUMBAI: In a move that has caught the attention of the advertising and creative community, Rajesh Ramaswamy has announced his exit from The Script Room, the company he co-founded, marking the end of a seven-year stint at the helm.
The decision, which came into effect earlier this month, signals a shift in focus for Ramaswamy, who is now looking to immerse himself fully in filmmaking and direction as an independent creative.
Known for blending sharp advertising insight with storytelling craft, Ramaswamy has been instrumental in shaping The Script Room into a creative hub that delivered campaigns, branded content, and original storytelling formats. Over the years, the company collaborated with agencies, directors, and a wide network of writers, while also experimenting with formats such as short films and web series.
Sharing his thoughts on the transition, Ramaswamy indicated that the move is driven by a desire to focus and explore stories he has been developing over time. While he acknowledged the unconventional nature of stepping away from one’s own venture, he also framed it as a necessary leap toward clarity and creative pursuit.
Importantly, The Script Room will continue its operations with its current team and leadership, with Ramaswamy expressing confidence in the group that helped build the company’s identity. The studio, he noted, remains well-positioned to evolve further with fresh talent and ideas.
His exit also reflects a wider industry trend, where experienced advertising professionals are increasingly transitioning into independent filmmaking, tapping into the growing opportunities across digital and long-form content platforms.
As Ramaswamy steps into this new phase, the move underscores a familiar creative instinct, sometimes, the boldest ideas begin with a clean break.
