‘SC filmmakers should receive training; KSFDC funds not for commercial films’: Adoor sparks row

Thiruvananthapuram: Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan stirred controversy at the Kerala government's Film Policy Conclave with remarks perceived as disparaging towards women and Scheduled Caste (SC) filmmakers receiving financial assistance from the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC).

He opined that KSFDC should not distribute funds for filmmaking arbitrarily and that the ₹1.5 crore being allotted is excessive. 

Referring to the government’s financial support of ₹1.5 crore allocated for SC and ST filmmakers, Adoor said the initiative, though well-intentioned, has become susceptible to misuse.

“I had earlier pointed out to the Chief Minister that this amount could lead to corruption. But no corrective action has been taken,” he said. He opined that instead of giving ₹1.5 crore to one person, it would be better to give ₹50 lakh each to three people.

He also stressed the need for structured training before offering such financial aid. “Those selected from the SC community should be given at least three months of intensive training by experts. They should be guided on how to manage budgets and understand the basics of film production,” he added.

He also opined that funds should not be distributed solely on the basis of gender.

"Don’t give funds just because someone is a woman," he said. However, he acknowledged that many talented female filmmakers are now coming forward.

Adoor also noted that many of those who received funding through the Kerala State Film Development Corporation had later filed complaints. “They assume that if they apply, they’ll receive enough money to make a film. That’s a wrong impression. They must understand this is public money, collected through taxes, and it should be used responsibly,” he said.

Following Adoor’s remarks, several filmmakers present at the venue raised objections. Some, including director Dr. Biju, attempted to respond directly to Adoor's statements, but he continued his speech.

Adoor also criticised the recent protests at the K.R. Narayanan Film Institute. He claimed the agitation was a response to efforts aimed at restoring discipline within the institution and alleged that the protests had ultimately led to the decline of the institute.

He also emphasised that the government fund is not meant for making commercial cinema, but for creating quality films.