Shiraz Mehdi Alleges Discrimination Against Small Films in Tollywood, Vows to Re-Release His Movie

Actor and producer Shiraz Mehdi has once again raised concerns about the challenges faced by small films in the Telugu film industry. At a recent media interaction, he alleged that a mafia-like system operates within Tollywood and claimed that small producers and directors encounter discrimination, financial exploitation and difficulties at various stages of film distribution. Speaking about O Andala Rakshasi, which he produced and starred in, Mehdi said the film had not received a fair opportunity to secure theatrical screenings. He maintained that the movie could attract audiences if it were allotted an adequate number of theatres.

Mehdi also criticised the charges associated with digital projection and film distribution, particularly those levied by service providers such as Qube and UFO. He alleged that services costing around ₹2,000 a week were being charged at ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 per theatre, adding to the financial burden on small producers. He further claimed that multiplex operators, including INOX, PVR and Asian Films, initially indicated that they would allocate screens but later withdrew. According to Mehdi, legal notices have been issued in connection with the matter, and summons have also been sent by the High Court. He said he had held more than 40 press meets and given over 50 interviews to highlight these issues. Despite the alleged obstacles and threats, he vowed to re-release O Andala Rakshasi. These claims represent Mehdi’s account of the dispute and have not been independently established here.