Dil Raju Press Meet About Latest Ongoing Issue In Tollywood

The Telugu film industry is currently embroiled in a controversy surrounding theatre shutdowns, with producer Dil Raju holding a press meet to clarify misconceptions. According to Dil Raju, the issue began in East Godavari and spread to Nizam, with exhibitors facing difficulties due to the existing rent and percentage system. "Exhibitors are currently facing challenges with the existing rent and percentage system," Dil Raju explained. The current model follows a rent system for the first week if collections are strong, shifting to percentage-based payments from the second week onwards when revenues drop.

Dil Raju emphasized the lack of unity in the industry, stating that producers are individually seeking ticket price hikes. He also addressed speculation around the film Hari Hara Veeramallu, denying any targeting of the film. "There is no truth in the speculation that Hari Hara Veeramallu is being targeted," he said. Dil Raju also mentioned that big films are scheduled for release in June and July, including Bhairavam, Thug Life, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, Kubera, and Kingdom. He expressed his desire to promote new talent and bring AI technology to the industry, and emphasized the importance of government support in solving industry problems.

Dil Raju further explained that out of 370 single-screen theatres in Nizam, his company and SVC collectively operate only 30, while the rest are mostly run by independent owners and their associates. He criticized certain sections of the media for writing irresponsibly about the issue, calling it personal attacks. Dil Raju also mentioned that he would have clarified to Minister Durgesh that theatres would not be closed if he had been contacted.

The producer also highlighted the importance of both governments supporting the film industry and mentioned that he is working on new ideas to benefit the industry. Despite the challenges, Dil Raju remains optimistic about finding a solution to the current problems and is committed to promoting new talent and leveraging technology to enhance the industry.