Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce president to vie for unity in industry

Meet HD Gangaraj, newly elected president of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), the apex body of Sandalwood. Gangaraj fought a tough election for the apex body in 2004 and defeated Basant Kumar Patil by a margin of 200 votes. This time, he has been elected unanimously as the president of the body. He was known for playing a key role in not only getting funds for the construction of building for the KFCC, but also solving the crisis over the release of other-language films in the state. In a brief interview with Y Maheswara Reddy, he expresses confidence of solving problems of Kannada film industry.

What will be your priority as the KFCC president?
My priority is to ensure unity among the three segments—producers, distributors and exhibitors. I had solved many problems when I had got elected as the president in 2004. My priority was to make the three segments work in tandem. Currently, these three groups have no coordination. I will try to ensure cooperation and coordination among these three segments.

How do you propose to solve the latest crisis of Neer Dose?
I am sad to see film personalities issuing statements against each other. I will discuss the issue with the producer of Neer Dose. After finding out the number of days required to complete the shooting of the film, I will discuss the matter with Ramya, who has become busy after getting elected to the Lok Sabha from Mandya.

Will Ramya follow your advice, as she is known for taking a tough stand against producers?
All problems will be solved amicably. I do not want the producer to lose money because some artiste is not able to attend the shooting after making a commitment. The producer spent crores of rupees. We have to protect his interest and at the same time not cause any inconvenience to the artistes.

The number of single-screen theatres has come down in Bangalore. How do you propose Kannada film producers get theatres for screening films?
It is true that some theatres on Kempe Gowda Road and other areas in the city have been closed. The theatre owners complain that they are not getting revenue as per the land value. Meanwhile, some developers promise them more revenue by constructing malls or commercial complex. I want the government to come out with a set of rules making a provision for a theatre mandatory.

Will you propose reduction of ticket prices at multiplexes?
I think the rate of admission at multiplexes is too high. Cine-goers from middle-class families can’t afford to watch Kannada films at multiplex theatres. We will decide after discussing with executive committee members of the KFCC.

What are your other priorities?
Finding a permanent solution to piracy menace is my other priority. There was a proposal for a Film City at Hesaraghatta, but nothing has happened till now. I will meet chief minister Siddaramaiah shortly to discuss the issue. We will also hold talks with South Indian Film Chambers of Commerce to launch separate satellite facility for screening Kannada, Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam films.