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**Kerala Film Policy Conclave Aims for Industry Overhaul, CM Criticizes National Awards**

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, August 2, 2025** – A two-day Kerala Film Policy Conclave kicked off today in Thiruvananthapuram, bringing together film personalities, government ministers, policymakers, and representatives from across the Malayalam film industry. The aim is to develop a comprehensive policy designed to bolster the industry’s growth and modernization.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, during his inaugural address, envisioned Kerala setting a new standard for film policy. However, his speech was also marked by strong criticism of the recent National Film Awards, specifically the recognition given to “The Kerala Story.” Vijayan condemned the awards as a “celebration of cultural corruption” and accused the film of promoting communal hatred and tarnishing Kerala’s image. He urged civil society and the film community to unite against the film’s divisive message.

“The message behind this is that art should be used to destroy the secularism of our country and replace it with communalism.”

He stressed the need for modernization and expansion of Malayalam cinema, urging industry organizations to set aside internal competition and collaborate for the collective good. Vijayan also cautioned against excessive violence and the glorification of drugs and alcohol in films.

Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian expressed hope that the conclave would position Kerala as the most film-friendly state in India, with robust infrastructure and support systems. He announced plans for a biennial “Kerala Film Mart,” modeled after the Kerala Travel Mart, to promote the industry. He credited the start of the conclave to a memorandum made by women filmmakers and suggestions from the Hema Committee.

Actor Mohanlal, a chief guest at the event, expressed optimism that the new policy would democratize the industry and foster greater inclusivity. Actress and filmmaker Suhasini suggested that the Kerala Film Conclave would become a model for film policy for all other states.

The Chief Minister concluded the inauguration by honoring filmmaker Saeed Akhtar Mirza, filmmaker Vetrimaran, sound designer Resul Pookutty, and lyricist and poet Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri for their contributions to the industry.

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