The Film Federation workers’ strike has brought production in TFI to a standstill, with a tense standoff between film workers and producers. Both sides remain firm in their positions, leaving the industry caught in a deadlock. While big producers are in talks with the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to find a resolution, smaller producers say they are struggling the most during this halt.
Speaking at a press conference in Prasad Labs, producer SKN said that small films make up 90% of the industry. He explained that they hold no major power or positions but still have a voice.
A proposal for a 25% wage cut for small films did not go through, and the current demand for a 30% hike seems unfair when business is down. He stated that they are ready to give a 50% hike if non-theatrical rights are sold, urging the Telugu state governments to address the concerns of small producers.
SKN also stressed that the industry should think collectively rather than selfishly, adding that no hero has refused to shoot without a wage hike and that the unions must work with the mindset of protecting their own industry.
Supporting him, producer Razesh Danda said his upcoming Deepavali release is now in trouble. He pointed out that payments from OTT and dubbed films are delayed, yet daily payments are still expected, calling this unrealistic.
Producer Dheeraj Mogilineni, who entered the industry out of passion, said the unions must understand the current reality. He explained that hiring 100 to 150 people when fewer are needed is impractical and added that ongoing strikes harm everyone involved.
