Mukesh Bhatt Slams Budget 2025: Calls for Bollywood’s Long Overdue Recognition

Nirmala Sitharaman and Mukesh Bhatt
Photo : Social Media

Mukesh Bhatt Raises Questions on Budget 2025: “When Will Our Morning Arrive?”

As India steps into the new fiscal year with the announcement of Budget 2025, the country has witnessed diverse reactions, from enthusiastic approvals to critical remarks. One industry, however, continues to feel sidelined despite its significant contribution to the nation’s economy and culture: the entertainment industry. Mukesh Bhatt, a renowned filmmaker and a prominent voice in Bollywood, has raised pressing concerns regarding the government’s treatment of the film sector in the latest budget. His question to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reflects the frustration of an industry that feels neglected—”When will our morning arrive?”

Mukesh Bhatt’s Call for Government Attention to Bollywood’s Struggles

In a recent media interaction, Mukesh Bhatt voiced his concerns about the absence of recognition for the entertainment industry in Budget 2025. His primary contention lies in the fact that while other industries are frequently discussed, Bollywood continues to be ignored by the policymakers. Bhatt emphasizes that the entertainment industry is a key pillar of India’s economy, and it deserves a seat at the table when important discussions take place.

He further highlights the paradox of Bollywood’s situation—India’s entertainment industry is a cultural ambassador on the global stage, but its struggles seem to be disregarded in the broader policy-making framework. For Bhatt, it is not just about funding or tax breaks; it’s about ensuring that the voices of filmmakers and industry professionals are heard in the halls of power. His plea is for the government to invite the film industry to the discussion table to better understand the unique challenges faced by the sector.

The lack of government support for Bollywood’s post-pandemic recovery, he argues, has only exacerbated the industry’s struggles. It’s not just about the financial losses in recent years but also about the lack of long-term vision for the industry’s future. While other sectors have received robust assistance, the entertainment industry continues to feel neglected.

The Need for Focused Policy Reforms for Bollywood’s Revival

Mukesh Bhatt’s frustration stems from the continued absence of structured and focused policies that could help revive the fortunes of the film industry. He advocates for targeted interventions in areas such as infrastructure development, financial assistance, and tax reliefs for filmmakers who have been severely impacted by recent events. While the government has acknowledged the importance of creative industries, the film sector’s specific needs have yet to be addressed.

For example, tax exemptions on film production, subsidies for regional cinema, and financial backing for digital content creators could go a long way in revitalizing the entertainment industry. In addition, strengthening the cinema infrastructure and encouraging investment in film production could create job opportunities and promote innovation within the sector.

Bhatt’s plea also extends to ensuring that content creators are supported in an increasingly competitive environment. With the rise of global streaming platforms, Bollywood must adapt to international standards and trends. Policy reforms should prioritize encouraging innovation, ensuring that filmmakers have the tools and resources to compete on a global scale.

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