Sat Dec 13 18:34:33 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewrite as a news article:
Summary:
Chennai is reinforcing its position as a major filmmaking hub in India with the inauguration of the VELS Trade and Convention Centre, Vels Film City, and Vels Theatres on the outskirts of the city. Actor-politician Kamal Haasan emphasized Chennai’s historical significance in pan-Indian filmmaking. The new facilities, including 20 advanced shooting studios, large convention halls, and a six-screen multiplex, aim to boost employment and provide a modern space for film production and events. Government and university officials lauded the investment, highlighting its importance at a time when other film studios are closing.
News Article:
Chennai Bolsters Film Industry with New VELS Trade and Convention Centre
Chennai, India – December 14, 2025 – Chennai’s film industry received a major boost with the inauguration of the VELS Trade and Convention Centre, Vels Film City, and Vels Theatres over the weekend. The expansive complex, located in Chembarambakkam on the city’s outskirts, aims to revitalize Chennai’s role as a key player in Indian cinema.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, actor and Member of Parliament Kamal Haasan underscored Chennai’s historical significance as a center for pan-Indian filmmaking. “Pan-India movie-making started in Chennai,” Haasan stated, emphasizing that studios in the city have consistently produced films in multiple languages, unlike some other major film hubs.
The new VELS Film City boasts 20 state-of-the-art shooting studios, positioning it as potentially one of the largest facilities of its kind in Asia. Haasan encouraged Kushmitha Ganesh, Vice President of Vels Group of Companies, to study international studio models to further enhance the facility.
The complex also features the VELS Trade and Convention Centre, with four halls capable of accommodating up to 20,000 guests, and VELS Theatres, a six-screen multiplex.
Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu highlighted the project’s potential to generate employment opportunities in the state. A.C. Shanmugam, Founder Chancellor of Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute, praised the investment as particularly important at a time when film studios are facing closures elsewhere.
Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder and Chancellor of Vels University, and Kushmitha Ganesh, Vice President of Vels Group of Companies, were also present at the inauguration. The complex, formerly known as EVP Film City, signals a renewed commitment to Chennai’s vibrant film and entertainment sector.
First Piper 