31 Films Banned

The 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Keralam began on Friday under a cloud of censorship, with the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting denying censor exemption to 31 films.

The Kerala State Chalachitra Academy is making efforts to secure permission for the screening of these 31 films. The festival features 347 selected documentaries and short films out of 1,800 submissions.

The Union I&B Ministry has forwarded some films for approval to the Defence Ministry and some to the External Affairs Ministry. Minister for Cultural Affairs P.C. Vishnunadh said the government has decided to take decisive steps to promote the film sector.

The Kerala government is planning to grant industry status to Malayalam cinema. A special programme is planned for young documentary filmmakers by bringing together academia and film societies.

## Why it matters The denial of censor exemption to 31 films has cast a shadow over the festival, with the academy working to update the screening schedule if permission is secured. The festival's success is crucial for the promotion of the film sector in Kerala, with the government planning to grant industry status to Malayalam cinema. This move is expected to have a significant impact on the film industry in the state.

The festival's inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister for Cultural Affairs P.C. Vishnunadh, who expressed the government's commitment to promoting the film sector. The academy chairperson's name is expected to be announced before the closing of the festival.

The 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Keralam will feature a wide range of documentaries and short films, showcasing the talent of filmmakers from around the world. Despite the censorship controversy, the festival is expected to be a success, with the academy working tirelessly to ensure that all selected films are screened.