Veteran producer D. Suresh Babu has been elected as the President of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) following recent elections. The election, held on Sunday, marked a significant leadership change for the Telugu film industry. Suresh Babu's victory reflects his decades-long contribution to Telugu cinema and his respected standing within the film fraternity.
Suresh Babu contested with the backing of the Progressive Panel, securing a decisive majority over his rivals. The Progressive Panel won 31 out of 48 executive committee seats, while the Mana Panel secured 17 seats. This clear victory demonstrates strong industry support for Suresh Babu's leadership and the Progressive Panel's vision.
Alongside Suresh Babu, other key members were elected to leadership positions. Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Bharat Chowdary were elected as Vice Presidents. Ashok Kumar will serve as the new Secretary. Mutyala Ramdas has been entrusted with the responsibility of Treasurer. Mohan Vadlapatla and Vijayender Reddy have been elected as Joint Secretaries.
The newly elected committee is set to assume their responsibilities early next year and will serve a two-year term. Industry members have expressed their hopes that the new leadership will prioritize unity, transparency, and the resolution of key challenges facing Telugu cinema. Suresh Babu takes over the presidency from Dil Raju and distributor Bharat Bhushan, who previously served in the role.
Daggubati Suresh Babu is a veteran producer, the father of actor Rana Daggubati, and the brother of actor Venkatesh. He owns and runs Ramanaidu Studios, a crucial entity in the Telugu film industry. Though he has not been actively producing films recently, his studio and production facilities continue to play a vital role.
Following his victory, Suresh Babu affirmed his panel's commitment to the welfare of exhibitors, producers, and distributors. The newly elected executive body intends to focus on addressing industry challenges and strengthening the theatre system. Vijayender Reddy, newly elected Joint Secretary, stated that the new body would support all sectors without discrimination, with a focus on small producers. He also mentioned exhibitors would push for single screens to expand into commercial spaces and seek a reduction in electricity tariffs in theaters.
The election saw participation from over 900 members out of a total of 3,100, representing the four sectors of the Chamber: Producers, Distributors, Exhibitors, and Studios. This year, the President's post was reserved for the Exhibitors' sector, leading to Suresh Babu's election. C. Kalyan, elected as an executive committee member, noted the elections were conducted in a free and fair manner.
