Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, May 29: Tulu filmdom has been facing the problem of theatres to release Tulu films. This year again it has been faced with the need to contend with the lockdown. The Coastalwood, which was preparing to celebrate golden jubilee this year, has lost its sheen because of the bleak situation it is staring at.

The producers of Tulu movies which were either ready for release or their shooting was stranded in between, are worried about what to do next. Those connected with the movies are also apprehensive about the chances of the people staying away from theatres even after the lockdown is lifted.

Tulu filmdom's first movie was 'Enna Tangadi' released in 1971. After tottering and faltering initially, Coastalwood was able to release a record 15 films in 2018 and another ten in 2019. The lockdown of 2020 hit the sector badly and only three films were released in 2020. Early this year, films, Gamjaal, Pepperere Pererere and English, were released and the producers were hoping to see a turnaround. But with the lockdown again, Coastalwood is paralysed and if the situation does not improve, no more films might see the light of the day this year. Even if released, the producers are afraid they might incur losses.

The theatres too are facing critical times now as over 15 theatre troupes from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Kasargod districts who were fully booked for Brahmakalashotsavas, annual festivals etc in April and May are hit hard by the lockdown.

Vijayakumar Kodialbail, noted cine director, said that most of the people who produced Tulu films have faced losses and its future is in doldrums. He expects it to take time for the sector to recover. At the same time, he said he is sure that the theatre groups will survive as these three districts witness religious programmes regularly.