National award-winning director Jahnu Barua on Thursday expressed hope that theatrical releases of non-features like documentaries and short films would be a reality in India soon.
Mr. Barua, who is the president of Indian Documentary Producers Association (IDPA), said that they are talking to the Government for reviving the Doordarshan slot for telecasting documentaries and short films.
“We are in constant dialogue with the government and exhibitors on this issue,” Mr. Barua said, adding that former Information and Broadcasting Minister Priyaranjan Dasmunsi had assured the revival of the documentary slot on Doordarshan and also on Lok Sabha TV.
“But, unfortunately he fell ill. We are pursuing the matter with the present government and have got positive response,” he said.
Mr. Barua, known for his films ‘Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara’ and ‘Halodhia Choraye Baodhan Khai’, said, “In India, documentaries and short films are not seen as a viable proposition. IDPA is working on not just providing an outlet for filmmakers but also ensuring financial returns.” He said IDPA was trying to create an archive in collaboration with filmmakers and try to exhibit the films made by them.
IDPA’s vice president, Ramesh Tekwani said the Centre has allocated Rs 20 crore towards improving the documentary and short film sector.
