There is perfect lull in the field of production of new, quality Rajasthani films. It’s long since a Rajasthani film of wide appeal was released at all important stations simultaneously across Rajasthan. The film industry, currently estimates not more than Rs. 150 million, has over 100 artistes and about a dozen directors and producers. It hardly manages to roll out a feature film in a year. Due to lack of infrastructure, films are usually shot in 16 mm and then converted into 35 mm.Rajasthani films are getting distant from both: theatres and cinegoers. Because of lack of good quality content, films have no takers. Moreover, the multiplex culture has added to the plight. Rajasthani film producers with no distributors for their films can’t afford high rates of multiplexes and even if they do, cineplex owners offer morning shows. And audience doesn’t want to spend so much money for regional cinema. On limited budget, cheap, below standard video films are being produced in plenty, which are released on DVDs.
Explaining the sad state of the industry, renowned Rajasthani film actor-turned producer, Neelu laments, “Lack of government support and people’s diminishing respect for our colloquial language has largely retarded the industry’s growth.”
While Hindi film producers have been romancing the locales and folklore of Rajasthan with films like Lamhe, Paheli, Rudali and more recently, Jodhaa Akbar, the regional film industry in Rajasthan is in peril.
Let production of 100th Rajasthani film prove a turning point in history of Rajasthani films. It’s encouraging that Rajasthan Government has exempted all theatres located in cities below one lakh of population from payment of entertainment tax. However, with a view to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Rajasthan’s art and culture, urgent need is that all Rajasthani films, on receipt of censor certificate, be totally exempted from payment of E Tax , be granted adequate subsidy for production of next film, reservation of cinemas for exhibition of their films for a limited period in an year, and institution of state awards for meritorious Rajasthani films. As production of a mega film Paheli, based on Rajasthani folkstory by Vijaydan Detha proves, there are immense possibilities, to be exploited with grit and imagination.
