In a significant move to bolster the Kannada film industry, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced the creation of a state-run OTT platform dedicated to promoting Kannada cinema. This initiative was unveiled during his budget speech, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting local filmmakers and enhancing the visibility of Kannada content globally12.

The decision to launch a dedicated OTT platform comes in response to concerns from prominent Kannada actors and producers, such as Rakshit Shetty and Rishab Shetty, who have faced challenges in securing releases on major streaming platforms13. This platform aims to provide Kannada filmmakers with a dedicated space to showcase their work, thereby promoting the state’s cultural heritage and fostering growth in the regional film industry24.

The new OTT platform will be developed in collaboration with tech and entertainment experts to ensure seamless integration into the current digital ecosystem. It is expected to not only provide a platform for local content creators but also generate employment opportunities and offer a sustainable model for the growth of the regional film industry24.

In addition to the OTT platform, the Karnataka government has announced several other initiatives to support the film sector. These include allocating Rs 3 crore for a repository of Kannada films in both digital and non-digital formats, granting industry status to the cinema sector, and implementing a price cap of Rs 200 on movie tickets across all theatres and multiplexes in Karnataka13. Furthermore, plans are underway to develop a multiplex complex under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in Bengaluru and an international Film City in Mysuru at a cost of Rs 500 crore13.

The launch of this OTT platform is expected to have a profound impact on the Kannada film industry. By providing a dedicated platform for local content, it will help Kannada cinema gain more visibility and compete effectively with other regional languages like Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam on a national and international level23.

Karnataka’s decision to establish a state-run OTT platform for Kannada cinema marks a significant step forward in promoting regional content and supporting local filmmakers. This initiative, combined with other measures to enhance the film industry, underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Kannada culture.

Key Highlights:

• Karnataka is launching a state-run OTT platform to promote Kannada cinema, addressing concerns from local filmmakers about limited visibility on major streaming platforms.
• The platform aims to provide a dedicated space for Kannada content creators and promote the state’s cultural heritage globally.
• Additional initiatives include granting industry status to the cinema sector, capping movie ticket prices, and developing film infrastructure under PPP models.
• The OTT platform is expected to boost employment and offer a sustainable growth model for the regional film industry.