Raipur: In a grand celebration of Chhattisgarhi cinema, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai honoured prominent filmmakers, directors, and artists in a special event held at the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium on Sunday. The event was organized jointly by the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation (CFDC) and the State Cultural Council, highlighting the achievements of the state’s vibrant film industry, popularly known as Chhollywood.
Honouring Chhattisgarhi Film Artists and Directors
The ceremony saw the presence of senior members of the Chhattisgarhi film fraternity, including renowned actors and directors. Several elected representatives such as MLAs Sunil Soni, Purandar Mishra, and Anuj Sharma also graced the occasion. During the event, filmmakers and artists who have made significant contributions to the growth of Chhollywood were felicitated. Among those honoured were Mohan Sundarani, Satish Jain, Santosh Jain, Manoj Verma, Anuj Sharma, and Prem Chandrakar.
Paying Tribute to Late Rajesh Awasthi
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai paid tribute to the first chairman of the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation, the late Rajesh Awasthi, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping Chhollywood. He said, “The contributions of late Rajesh Awasthi to Chhattisgarhi cinema are unforgettable. His untimely demise was an irreparable loss to the state and the film industry.”
Support for CFDC Under Mona Sen
The CM expressed confidence in CFDC Chairperson Mona Sen, calling her an experienced and hardworking artist, actor, and singer. “Under her leadership, Chhattisgarh’s film development initiatives and Chhollywood will gain new momentum and direction,” he said.
Celebrating Chhollywood’s Legacy
Addressing the audience, the Chief Minister highlighted the historical milestones of Chhattisgarhi cinema, which began in 1957. He referenced landmark films like Mor Chhayan Bhuiyan and the nationally recognized Bhulan Kanda, emphasizing how Chhollywood has carved its unique identity both nationally and internationally. He congratulated all producers, directors, actors, and singers for their achievements in promoting regional cinema.
Chitrotpala Film City to Transform Chhollywood
In a major announcement, CM Vishnu Deo Sai revealed that the state government will construct the Chitrotpala Film City to further develop and expand Chhollywood. A budget of ₹150 crore has already been approved for the project. He expressed confidence that the film city would usher in a new era for Chhattisgarhi cinema, offering modern facilities for film production and boosting the industry’s growth.
Message for Chhollywood’s Bright Future
Concluding the event, the Chief Minister assured that the government would continue to provide full support to Chhattisgarhi cinema, enabling local talents to showcase their work on national and international platforms. Filmmakers and artists attending the event welcomed the initiative, stating that the programme and the upcoming film city would serve as a strong foundation for a golden future for Chhollywood.
This event marks a significant step in recognising and promoting regional cinema, while also reinforcing the government’s commitment to cultural development in Chhattisgarh.
