HYDERABAD
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on Wednesday said that the screening process for the Gaddar Film Awards will begin on February 6, with the awards ceremony scheduled for March 19, coinciding with Ugadi.
Addressing the jury members of Gaddar Film Awards during a meeting at the Secretariat, he said that last year’s event sent a powerful message globally and assured that this edition too would be organised on a grand scale. “The FDC and the Information & Public Relations Department have been granted full autonomy and support to conduct the event,” he said.
Assuring transparency in the selection process, the Deputy CM recalled that last year’s jury earned widespread appreciation for its impartiality. The current jury, appointed through consultations by the Film Development Corporation (FDC), comprises experienced and respected figures from the industry. He said the government would extend full cooperation to ensure a smooth selection process.
Reiterating that the ‘Praja Palana’ aims to ensure public welfare through every initiative, he urged jury members to consider not just commercial appeal but also strong social messages while choosing award winning films, so as to encourage impactful storytelling.
“The State government is giving top priority to the Telugu film industry and is striving to transform Hyderabad into the country’s leading hub for cinema production,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister noted that traditional film centres such as Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai have limited scope for expansion, whereas Hyderabad offers significant advantages for filmmakers across languages.
He added that the State government will soon prepare a comprehensive blueprint to strengthen the ecosystem. He paid rich tributes to revolutionary balladeer Gaddar on the occasion.
FDC chairman Dil Raju, I&PR Commissioner Priyanka, and several noted film personalities attended the meeting.
Published – February 04, 2026 08:56 pm IST
