Aizwal:
Swamped by Korean films dubbed in Mizo language, the film industry in Mizoram hopes that whichever party comes to power after polls should allocate more funds for its development.
The chorus for more funds for Mizo films had gained momentum after a movie by independent film-maker Mapui Chungwatha, 'Khawnglung Run', was selected for screening in the Goa International Film Festival.
"If a film-maker wants to make a film he doesn't get funds. Neither the government nor any department comes forward to help film-makers. So from where will good films come?" Mapui Chungwatha told PTI in Aizawl.
The dubbed Korean films and serials are a mode of entertainment for thousands of Mizos, who hardly get to see a Mizo movie or a serial in the two main local cable channels.
The main reasons for the huge popularity of Korean films are their easy accessibility and similarity in facial features and some traditions in Korean soaps.
In last year's budget, Rs 20 lakh was earmarked for the promotion of visual arts and film industry by the Mizoram government, which the film-makers feel is not enough.
"What can a person do with just Rs 10 lakh for film making? I used my own money of around Rs 10.6 lakh or making 'Khawnglung Run'. From that you can understand how insufficient the money granted by the government is," said Mapui.