Independent Cinema in India Struggles for Visibility, Rima Das Urges Support
Image Source: Internet
Panaji, Goa - Renowned filmmaker Rima Das has expressed her concerns over the dwindling opportunities for independent cinema in India. Speaking to PTI, Das emphasized the need for support and intervention from the government and exhibition sector. Das highlighted the stark contrast between the visibility of big-budget films and the limited space available for independent filmmakers. She urged for a system to be put in place to balance the disparity, ensuring that independent films are not overlooked. The filmmaker, known for her critically acclaimed film "Village Rockstars," cited the example of director Kanu Behl's film "Agra," which failed to secure screens in multiplexes. This incident sparked a joint statement from over 40 filmmakers, including Nandita Das and Payal Kapadia, drawing attention to the declining space for independent films. Das commended filmmaker Kiran Rao for supporting independent film "Humans in the Loop" and emphasized the importance of dedicated theatres for screening independent films in every city. She expressed gratitude that her own films have managed to create buzz, but stressed that consistent efforts are needed to resolve the issue. Das's comments come as she attends the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), where her anthology film "My Melbourne" was screened to a packed audience. She sees IFFI as a platform for cultural exchange, and hopes that such initiatives will continue to promote independent cinema in India.
