The Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy in association with the Department of Information and Communication and the Department of Kannada, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru organized a 3-day Regional Film Festival from 21 – 23 September 2018 in L.F. Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block.
Renowned film director and Karnataka Film Academy Chairman Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekar inaugurated the programme. Renowned Cine Stars and Directors, Sri Rishabh Shetty and Sri Shivadhwaj were the guests of honour. Principal, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ presided over the programme. Convener of the Film Festival, Dr. Na. Damodara Shetty, HOD of Kannada, Dr Saraswathi Kumari B. and Film Director Richard Castelino were present on the dais.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekar said that "Tulunadu is a pool of talents and it has contributed immensely to the film industry. Hence, Mangaluru has been chosen to organise the regional film festival. Around 200 films are being produced in Kannada language in a year. Though there is a limited scope for Tulu language films over 100 films are being produced here in a year. Those involved in the film industry should give maximum priority to quality than quantity." He opined that the films produced in the regional languages have been grabbing attention globally.
Actor and director Shivadhwaj said, films should not be divided on the lines of art and entertainment. In order to produce more films in regional languages, the government should release subsidy, he added.
Rishabh Shetty in his speech said, "There is a need to produce such films which force the audience to go to film theaters. The success of a film depends largely upon the mindset of the people and quality of a film always ensures its success."
Principal, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ explained the importance of regional language movies. He applauded the Department of Kannada for taking such initiative in joining hands with the Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy in organizing such a film festival. He also said that the messages conveyed through cinemas should reach the audience.
The films shown in this festival are: Oriyardori Asal (Tulu) Byaari (Muslim), Bangaar Patler (Tulu), Chalipolilu (Tulu), Ujwadu (Konkani), Talang Neer (Kodava), Konjavaram (Banjara), Paddaayi (Tulu) and Sarakari Hiriya Prathamika Shaale, Kasaragodu (Kannada).
Kannada Professor Dr Vishwanatha Badikana compered the programme. Dr Na. Damodar Shetty welcomed the gathering. Dr Saraswathi Kumari B. proposed the vote of thanks.