COVID-19 Shadow On Odisha State Film And Tele Awards This Year

Bhubaneswar: Questions have been raised on state film and tele awards this year with the Odisha government yet to initiate any steps in this regard till date.

Normally, the process of inviting applications for the awards is completed by February-March every year, the selection committee is formed by August-September and films are screened by October-November. But the Culture department is yet to advertise soliciting the applications till date.

After the department announces the winners of the awards at an official press meet, the awards giving function is organized in December every year. The function, which was held for one day earlier, was extended to two days after the government added tele awards in 2011.

With film halls remaining closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, the Odia film producers and distributors have already run into a loss of crores of rupees. Since the government has not allowed cultural functions for the pandemic, the restrictions are expected to continue for some time.

Under the circumstances, the producers were looking forward to the award function. But that appears elusive now. “The government can organize the function through a virtual medium. At least it will ensure some encouragement to the filmmakers of Ollywood,” said a producer.

Also Read: Odia Filmmaker Biswanath Rath’s ‘Ravaiyaa’ Wins Laurels At International Film Fests