Telugu Cinema: Emerging as a Global Brand
Andhra Pradesh – The Film-Friendly State
Andhra Pradesh is poised to become the most film-friendly state in India. Minister Kandula Durgesh announced that the government will soon unveil a comprehensive Film Tourism Policy to attract filmmakers and investors. He emphasized that the state will provide encouragement and assurance to all investors in the Indian Media & Entertainment sector. “Let’s work together to create a new chapter in the Telugu Film Industry,” he urged.
The AP Government will support ventures building Integrated Film Cities, modern studios, dubbing theatres, and re-recording facilities. Talent development is also a priority, with plans to revive the Nandi Awards and the Nandi Drama Festival soon.
Minister Durgesh shared these updates with investors at the CII Big Picture Summit 2025 in Mumbai, where he also delivered a keynote address on film and tourism investment opportunities.
Telugu Cinema – A Global Brand
Minister Durgesh highlighted that Telugu cinema ranks as the second-largest film industry in India, contributing nearly 20% to the national film output. Andhra Pradesh alone has 1,103 screens, the second-highest after Tamil Nadu.
He noted that world-class films like Baahubali, RRR, Kalki 2898 AD, Pushpa series, Salaar, and OG have set global benchmarks for storytelling, visual effects, and production quality. “These films prove the creativity of Telugu cinema and strengthen its position as a global brand,” he said. The state government is committed to providing full support to the industry to continue this growth.
Revival of Nandi Awards and Nandi Natakotsavams
Minister Durgesh described a vibrant, digital, and global future for the Indian Media & Entertainment sector. He emphasized AP’s commitment to becoming the most film-friendly shooting destination in India. The new Film Tourism Policy will cover all aspects of the industry, from production to exhibition.
To streamline filmmaking, the government is simplifying permissions for shooting in government and public spaces. Durgesh also stressed that talent is central to growth. In line with this, the state will revive the Nandi Awards and Nandi Natakotsavams, highlighting its commitment to artists, technicians, and cultural heritage.
Investment Opportunities and Benefits
Minister Durgesh outlined multiple incentives for investors in AP’s Media & Entertainment sector:
- Granting Industry Status to tourism and hospitality sectors, making them eligible for all subsidies.
- Targeting ₹25,000 Crore ($3 Billion) in private investment by 2029, with an existing pipeline of ₹24,000 Crore and ₹6,000 Crore already approved.
- Expanding classified hotel rooms from 3,500 to 50,000 to meet rising demand.
- Offering 100% Stamp Duty reimbursement on land purchase/lease and waiving Land Conversion Charges for eligible projects.
- Providing 100% SGST reimbursement for up to 15 years.
- Granting direct capital subsidies: 25% for MSMEs and 10% for large/mega projects.
- Supplying electricity at industrial rates and a five-year exemption from electricity duty to reduce operational costs.
AP – A Hub for AI, VFX, and Gaming
The state’s Swarnandhra Vision 2047 aims to transform Andhra Pradesh into a $2.4 Trillion economy. Minister Durgesh revealed plans to develop AP as a global hub for AI, VFX, and Gaming, dubbing it the “Andhra Valley.”
Andhra Pradesh offers a stunning mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From Tirupati and Srisailam to Araku Valley and Lambasingi, the state provides a perfect canvas for filmmakers and tourists alike. The government is developing seven anchor hubs and 21 thematic circuits, including Adventure, Eco, Temple, and Film Tourism, through a “Hub-and-Spoke” model.
Tourism and Film Infrastructure Vision
Minister Durgesh emphasized sustainable tourism and world-class infrastructure, leveraging both cinematography and historical heritage. Investors are invited to build state-of-the-art studios, dubbing, and post-production facilities, supported by competitive incentives in the new Film Tourism Policy.
He further highlighted the government’s aim to create a knowledge economy, attracting global thinkers and skilled technicians. By nurturing high-value intellectual capital, Andhra Pradesh plans to make its creative output globally competitive and establish itself as a gateway for South Indian content worldwide.
Investor Engagement at the CII Summit
During the CII Big Picture Summit, Minister Durgesh held several key meetings:
- Discussions with CII officials and industry leaders on shaping the future of Media & Entertainment in the AI era.
- A presentation on film infrastructure with YouTube India and other media stakeholders.
- Separate sessions with studios, amusement parks, and hospitality companies to explain investment opportunities and government incentives.
Minister Durgesh assured investors of a stable, transparent, and business-friendly administration, inviting collaboration to take the Indian Media & Entertainment sector to the $100 Billion mark.
