The entertainment industry has witnessed a massive change after OTTs, offering a vast array of content to audiences globally. Despite the global success of films like ‘KGF’ and ‘Kantara,’ the Kannada film industry faces a challenge in gaining the recognition it deserves on these digital platforms. Actor Rishab Shetty, known for his role in the hit film ‘Kantara,’ recently expressed his concerns during a press conference at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
Rishab Shetty raised a pertinent issue about the accessibility of Kannada films on OTT platforms. Despite the industry producing notable successes like ‘KGF’ and ‘Kantara,’ he highlighted that OTT platforms seem less open to content from the Kannada film industry. The actor shed light on the reluctance of these platforms to showcase Kannada films, citing reasons such as perceived lack of subscribers and a need for further evaluation.
Despite the active involvement of production houses like Rakshit Shetty’s Paramvah Studios and Rishab Shetty Films, he pointed out that OTT platforms were not readily embracing Kannada films. This raises questions about the criteria and considerations that OTT platforms use when selecting content for their platforms.
Rishab Shetty made a compelling plea to IFFI and its sponsors, urging them to recognize and acknowledge Kannada films. He emphasized the importance of providing a platform for films that may have had limited exposure in theatres, underlining the need for equal opportunities on OTT platforms. This plea draws attention to the broader issue of regional cinema struggling for representation in the digital space.
Long long back even Binged talked about how OTT platforms treat Kannada almost like a stepmother. This is disturbing and should be checked. We believe in equal representation of content in OTTs.