3 days ago
Joint selection of Nandi Awards by Andhra Pradesh and Telangana opposed
Film director and MA-AP founder Dileep Raja has opposed suggestions to have the Nandi film awards selected jointly by Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Speaking to The Hindu on Wednesday, he questioned the need for a joint process when Telangana had renamed its awards after poet Gaddar and conducted them independently. 'When Telangana gave away awards in Gaddar's name, did it involve Andhra Pradesh?' he asked.
Citing the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, Mr. Raja noted that both States have separate Chief Ministers and Film Development Corporations, and decisions must comply with legal provisions. He said Telangana's award choices reflect its own cultural identity and social context, which may differ from Andhra Pradesh's criteria.
While films are released in both States, he stressed that the Nandi Awards Committee should pick winners strictly on merit to ensure transparency. He also urged the government to consult film industry members from Andhra Pradesh before framing the new film policy.
