Hyderabad: Filmmaker and actor Shiraz Mehdi, who made and plays the lead in “O Andala Rakshasi,” alleged at a press conference at Prasads Labs that discrimination against small films has reached an alarming level in the Telugu film industry, and said he would not stay silent while small producers are pushed out of theatres.
Mehdi said he made the film with the backing of experienced technicians and was confident it could perform well if given a proper theatrical release. He said he had already held more than 40 press conferences and given over 50 interviews on the film’s release troubles, and vowed to re-release it “at any cost,” saying he was prepared to hold 100 more press conferences and rallies if that is what it takes.
“Qube and UFO Are Exploiting Small Producers”
Mehdi alleged that small producers are charged heavily in the name of censor-related procedures and the ADCC process, and claimed that digital cinema service providers Qube and UFO charge roughly ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 per theatre for services he said could be provided for about ₹2,000 a week — an extra burden, he argued, that falls hardest on small producers. Deccan Bhoomi has not independently verified these specific figures.
Multiplex Chains and the Film Chamber
He was also critical of the Telugu Film Chamber, alleging it does not adequately support small producers and directors. He claimed leading multiplex chains, including INOX, PVR and Asian Films, had initially assured his team of theatres before backing out, and said legal notices, including from the High Court, had followed.
Appeal to the Chief Minister
Mehdi appealed to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to examine what he described as mafia-like practices in the film industry and act to protect small films. He also sought welfare measures, including health insurance, for drivers, makeup artists, technicians, junior artists and other industry workers.
Others at the Press Meet
Producer Ahmed said small producers “are not receiving even basic respect and opportunities,” warning that the current system could push many into serious financial distress. Comedian Jabardasth Parthu called it unfortunate that “a film with good content” was struggling for screens and said small films need room to survive if the industry is to grow. Retired ACP Laxman said several families depend on any given film and urged the Film Chamber and industry seniors to back films like this one and raise the issue with the Cinematography Minister. Shailaja, also present, extended her support to the film’s team.
“Know the Industry Before You Enter It”: R.V. Reddy
High Court advocate and producer R.V. Reddy shared his own experience, alleging that industry representatives had taken payment on a promise of around 200 theatres but that the film was ultimately released in only about 60, a loss he put at roughly ₹10 crore. “Coming into the industry without understanding how it works was our mistake,” he said, cautioning new producers and directors against entering blindly. He alleged a significant part of the industry is controlled by what he called a “mafia,” and said aspiring producers should understand the market and distribution system before investing, adding that many new entrants come in hoping to build a career rather than to deceive anyone. Deccan Bhoomi has not independently verified the theatre count or loss figure cited.
