Breaking Barriers: The Potential of Odia Film Industry to Create Pan-Indian Blockbusters

Why is the Odia film industry lagging behind in creating blockbusters like KGF, Beast, Pushpa - The Rise, and Bahubali? Can the same potential not be harnessed to produce films that resonate nationwide?

Industries and their Reach

It is a fact that any industry thrives when there is a ready market for its products. For instance, the Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, Bengali, and Marathi film industries have garnered national recognition and have a roster of stars that are known across the country. However, when it comes to the Odia film industry, the landscape appears quite different.

The Odia Film Industry's Current State

The Odia film industry is no less competent; numerous talented actors, directors, and producers are contributing to its growth. Names like Prashant Nanda, Sethu Dasgupta, Naujamposini Behera, and Biswajit Behera have made significant contributions to the industry. Interestingly, some renowned figures have crossed over to Hindi cinema, such as Mr. Prashant Nanda, who directed and starred in the remake of his own Odia movie Naiyya. The presence of stalwarts like Late Bijaya Mohanty and Late Hara Bahadur Patnaik further strengthens the industry's credentials.

Talent and Potential

Actresses like Aparajita and Rachana Bannerji are well-known for their talent. In the realm of music, Akshay Mohanty stands out as a singer, lyricist, and music composer. Every Odia film lover knows about Kishore Kumar, who has his own significant contributions as a great singer, lyricist, and music composer. These individuals highlight the industry's rich potential and serve as role models for aspiring filmmakers and actors.

What's Holding Back Odia Films?

The primary issue is a lack of conviction and boldness from filmmakers. While some innovative and unique concepts can often lead to groundbreaking successes, the absence of a sustained effort to break these barriers can be detrimental. Additionally, filmmakers need government support in terms of tax exemptions, economic assistance, and other incentives. Prominent Odia figures in the government, such as Shri Naveen Patnaik, have the potential to champion Odia films and inspire change.

Government Support

Actresses like Aparajita, who was one of the leading stars of the 1990s, emphasized the importance of having a stable support system for the Odia film industry. While she will encourage her children to pursue a career in the industry, she also highlights the need for another source of income. Government support is crucial, and with more prominent figures at the national level, there is a burgeoning opportunity to improve the infrastructure and support for Odia films.

Support from Filmmakers and Audiences

Furthermore, it is the responsibility of filmmakers to produce diverse content that appeals to a wide audience. This includes short films, documentaries, and web series that can help establish a broader reach. It is also essential to encourage and support the audience to watch Odia films. Many urban Odia speakers do not watch Odia movies, and increasing this segment of the audience can help in the long run. By promoting and supporting Odia cinema, individuals can contribute to its growth and eventual success on a national level.

A Look to the Future

While the Odia film industry currently faces certain challenges, there is immense potential to break through these barriers and create a pan-Indian impact. By fostering greater collaboration between filmmakers, government support, and audience engagement, the industry can aspire to reach new heights within 10-15 years. We must hope that the road to national recognition is not too far away for Odia cinema.