In a strong show of solidarity, 46 independent filmmakers, including prominent figures like Nandita Das, Payal Kapadia, and Vasan Bala, have issued a joint statement denouncing exhibition biases within the Indian film industry, following the limited release and subsequent screen losses of Kanu Behl's critically acclaimed film, "Agra". Behl's film, which explores complex themes of sexuality and cramped spaces within a family, premiered at Cannes and received praise at various festivals, but struggled to secure adequate screenings in India.
The joint statement, shared by Behl on his Instagram account, highlights the systemic barriers faced by independent filmmakers in India. It points out that while Indian independent films have consistently garnered international recognition at prestigious film festivals like Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance, Locarno, Rotterdam, and Busan, they often struggle for visibility and screen time within their own country. The filmmakers argue that "Agra's" limited release reflects a broader, long-standing pattern affecting small and mid-budget films across various languages.
The statement criticizes the practice of providing independent films with limited screenings, often confined to morning or weekend slots, and instances of sudden show cancellations. The filmmakers also raised concerns about a lack of transparency in programming decisions and the prioritization of big-budget releases by multiplex chains. Behl himself lamented that "Agra" was being denied shows because "small films don't fit into multiplex chain programming". He appealed to audiences to speak up and demand to see the film, emphasizing that the issue extends beyond just finding niche screenings and is about ensuring fair and visible access in mainstream cinema.
Furthermore, the joint statement addresses the increasing reliance of OTT platforms on a film's theatrical performance as a prerequisite for acquisition. The filmmakers argue that this creates a "closed-loop ecosystem" where independent films are pressured to "prove" themselves in theaters while simultaneously being denied adequate theatrical access. They contend that this system is unsustainable, shrinking India's cultural space, and potentially eliminating entire generations of independent filmmakers.
The statement calls for equitable showtimes, transparency in programming, independent film showcase cycles, public and private exhibition support, and OTT acquisition parity. The appeal underscores the independent film community's desire for fair access and the right for Indian audiences to discover Indian films. Kanu Behl has emphasized that the fight is no longer just about his film but about who controls what India watches. He is urging the filmmaking community to unite and demand structural support to safeguard independent cinema. He stated that filmmakers need to come together and lobby with the powers and that the quality of the shows and the minimum number of screens need to be mandated to protect independent cinema.
