Actor Mohanlal praised the Kerala Budget 2026-27 for its significant support to Malayalam cinema. The decision to consider granting industry status to the film sector was highlighted as a move that would rejuvenate the industry, fostering growth and global opportunities. The government, under Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s leadership, unveiled a film package in the maiden Budget, outlining plans for the comprehensive development of Malayalam cinema.
The package includes the establishment of the J.C. Daniel International Film City – Chitranagaram in Kochi. It aims to formalize cinema’s industry status, establish a permanent venue for international film festivals, set up anti-piracy cells, and attract national and international film productions. A budget of Rs 100 crore has been allocated for these initiatives, as announced by Satheesan, who also serves as the Finance Minister.
Mohanlal expressed his appreciation for the government’s decision, emphasizing the positive impact it would have on the Malayalam film industry and the individuals associated with it. The long-pending demand for industry status for cinema has been met with optimism, with expectations of enhanced institutional support, better production facilities, and increased employment opportunities for the sector.
The Budget also introduced plans for a dedicated Anti-Piracy Cell to address the challenges posed by piracy in the digital era. Beyond cinema, the cultural aspects of the Budget were highlighted with the proposal of the M.T. Vasudevan Nair Cultural Park in Kozhikode. This project, with an allocation of Rs 50 crore, aims to preserve Kerala’s literary and artistic heritage, featuring facilities like a library, modern theatre, art gallery, and history museum.
