Hyderabad witnessed a strong protest by several film producers from Telangana, mainly those working on small and medium-budget films. They gathered to voice their concerns about rising digital screening charges and the increasing threat of film piracy. The producers said that the current system is hurting the film industry, especially filmmakers who do not have big budgets.
The protest was organised in front of a film industry office, where producers held placards and spoke to the media. They claimed that digital service providers are charging very high fees to screen films in theatres. According to them, these companies are demanding thousands of rupees per week from each theatre. For a film released in hundreds of theatres, the total amount becomes extremely difficult for small producers to pay.
Producers argued that these charges are much higher than in other states, and they feel it is unfair. Some even said that this system is controlled by a few large companies and influential producers, which makes it harder for new and small producers to survive in the industry.
Along with this issue, they also expressed serious concern about digital piracy. They said that even before their films complete the first week in cinemas, they appear online on illegal websites and social media channels. This causes huge financial losses and discourages audiences from visiting theatres. The producers appreciated recent police action against piracy but demanded stronger laws and quicker action to stop film theft.
Many protestors also blamed high ticket prices and expensive snacks in theatres for keeping family audiences away, resulting in low earnings for smaller films. They urged the government to regulate digital service prices, control piracy, and support local filmmakers to protect the future of the film industry.
They warned that if the situation does not improve soon, many small production houses may shut down, affecting jobs and creativity in the regional cinema sector.
