Conclave opens in Kerala to draft long-awaited Malayalam cinema policy

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala, a state that takes pride in having the highest film literacy in the country but lacks a formal film policy, on Saturday launched the Kerala Film Policy Conclave — a two-day event that aims to address key issues in the Malayalam film industry, from promoting inclusivity to ensuring the safety of women.

Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman Prem Kumar told Onmanorama on the sidelines of the conclave that discussions will continue even after the two-day conclave, before the policy is presented to the cabinet.

As per the agenda, there will be nine sessions where deliberations will take place to tackle various challenges facing the industry. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the event, used the platform to sharply criticise the use of cinema as a tool for spreading false propaganda — a remark seen as a veiled reference to the National Film Awards announced on Friday evening. He also urged members of the film industry to set aside personal pride and work collectively to make it a better space.

Suhasini, the special guest at the function, appreciated the efforts of the state government and the Department of Cultural Affairs in drafting a cinema policy, which she said will benefit the industry in the long run.

Mohanlal, invited as the chief guest, said the conclave reflects the state government’s commitment to the Malayalam film industry. The Kerala Film Policy Conclave, a step towards formalising a policy for the industry, is witnessing the participation of over 500 delegates from across the state and the country.