YSR Congress Party chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced a statewide protest campaign named ‘Vennupotu’, set to begin on June 4. As part of the movement, the party plans to organize demonstrations and rallies at district collectorates across Andhra Pradesh, targeting the policies of the current NDA-led state government.
Though Jagan has made similar declarations in the past without personally taking to the streets, this time he has assured active participation in the protests. He emphasized that he will stand with the people and lead the agitation from the front to build pressure on Chandrababu Naidu’s administration.
This protest is notably timed just days before the state government’s scheduled rollout of major welfare schemes. Starting June 12, the Naidu-led government plans to implement programs like ‘Thalliki Vandhanam’—a financial assistance scheme for mothers—and another initiative offering input subsidies to farmers. Both schemes were announced earlier, and beneficiary lists are reportedly being finalized.
Jagan’s move to initiate protests before the launch of these schemes is drawing significant attention. Political analysts suggest that the timing may be strategic. By organizing protests just ahead of the rollout, Jagan could attempt to frame the implementation of these welfare programs as a response to political pressure from the YSRCP. This might allow him to gain public sympathy and political traction ahead of future elections.
Theatre Shutdown Averted: SKN Urges Focus on Audience Decline
The recent turmoil in the cinema exhibition industry, which hinted at a possible shutdown of theatres from June 1, has thankfully been resolved. Film producers engaged in discussions with exhibition sector representatives and successfully defused the situation.
The threat of a complete theatre shutdown has now been averted, though conversations around the issue continue. Producer SKN addressed the matter during a recent media interaction, shedding light on the core concerns facing the industry.
When asked about the dispute over revenue-sharing percentages between producers and exhibitors, SKN offered a deeper perspective. He stated that the real issue lies not just in the percentage breakdown, but in the declining number of moviegoers. “The industry’s focus should shift towards understanding why audiences are no longer turning up at theatres in large numbers,” he emphasized.
SKN also highlighted the significant impact of OTT platforms, which have transformed viewing habits and pulled audiences away from traditional cinema halls. He noted that filmmakers must acknowledge and adapt to this shift in consumer behavior.
His comments struck a chord with many in the industry, offering a thoughtful analysis of the evolving landscape. As the theatrical business navigates this transition, SKN’s insights underscore the need for innovation and renewed audience engagement.