Murali Mohan Urges Unified Film Awards Policy for AP and Telangana

Veteran Telugu film actor Murali Mohan has appealed to the Andhra Pradesh government to begin conferring state film awards, similar to Telangana. He made this appeal while speaking at an event held in Hyderabad to announce the Gaddar Awards instituted by the Telangana government.

Murali Mohan urged both state governments to establish a mutual understanding regarding the presentation of awards related to Telugu cinema and to handle the matter without giving rise to controversies. He expressed his view that it is not appropriate for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to confer awards separately for the same Telugu film.

“This practice leads to unnecessary debates and disputes. Instead, both governments should come to a joint decision. One year, the Telangana government can announce the awards, and the following year, the Andhra Pradesh government can take the turn. By following this pattern, no issues will arise,” said Murali Mohan.

He further stated, “If a film receives an award in Telangana and another film is honored in Andhra Pradesh, it inevitably sparks controversy. Telugu cinema needs the support of both states. One state is not superior or inferior to the other. All Telugu-speaking audiences are united when it comes to cinema. Our films are now being screened globally. In fact, American audiences are watching Telugu movies before we do.”

Murali Mohan emphasized that decisions concerning cinema should be made by the governments with a focus on unity within the Telugu film industry and its audience. The response of the two Telugu state governments to Murali Mohan’s suggestion remains to be seen.