The first day of the Kerala Film Policy Conclave, held in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, marked a crucial turning point in the state’s efforts to bring structural reform to the Malayalam film industry. Organised by the Department of Culture, the two-day event brought together nearly 500 delegates, including members of film unions, production houses, independent creators, and policymakers, to help shape a comprehensive state film policy. The initiative follows long-standing recommendations from the Hema Committee Report, which highlighted systemic gaps and called for a clear regulatory framework for the sector.
Inaugurating the conclave, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Malayalam film industry while ensuring transparency and equity. Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian confirmed that the suggestions and recommendations from the conclave will be published for public consultation, with the final policy draft expected within two months.
Prominent figures at the event included chief guests Mohanlal and Suhasini Maniratnam, along with Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty, acclaimed filmmakers Vetri Maaran, Sudhir Mishra and Anjali Menon, editor Bina Paul, actor-director Revathy, and actor Padmapriya, among others.
The opening day saw an outpouring of ideas, with the safety and well-being of women in the industry emerging as a central concern. Many speakers stressed the urgent need to mandate Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) on all sets, in compliance with sexual harassment laws, and called for clear definitions of what constitutes a workplace. Proposals included maternity leave, on-set childcare, safe and hygienic accommodation during shoots, and protection against online abuse and hate campaigns. There were also demands for gender-balanced ICCs and inclusive grievance redressal mechanisms.
Labour conditions featured prominently in the discussions. Technicians, writers, and supporting artists highlighted the precarity of their employment, citing long hours, poor remuneration, and delayed payments. Several delegates demanded an eight-hour workday, proper overtime compensation, and stricter enforcement of existing contracts—particularly for freelancers and those outside the star system. The widening wage gap between lead actors and crew members was described as unsustainable by multiple stakeholders.
Distribution and exhibition challenges were also raised. Theatre owners expressed concerns over high electricity charges due to smart meters and renewed their call for relaxation of entertainment taxes, especially in light of existing GST obligations. Financial support for upgrading ageing single-screen cinemas was another key demand. The proposal for a unified e-ticketing system was broadly welcomed as a step towards ensuring transparency and better revenue tracking.
Independent filmmakers raised concerns about limited access to theatres and OTT platforms. Proposals included a quota for daily screenings of indie films, increased government subsidies, reduced charges for title registration, and a dedicated state-level jury for film festival selections. There were also appeals to include television serials within the policy framework and to expand access to scholarships and skill development programmes for emerging talent.
As the conclave enters its second day, expectations remain high that the discussion will turn towards institutional mechanisms, legal protections, and long-term planning for a more equitable and inclusive industry.