Peoples Telangana

By T.Chiranjeevulu, IAS (Ret)  The film industry is not merely a source of entertainment but a powerful tool that influences people's thinking. It has a profound impact on the masses. For decades, the film industry in India, particularly in the Telugu states, has become a gateway to politics. We have seen numerous instances where popular film heroes have entered politics and gained power. In the Telugu film industry, most leading heroes belong to dominant castes. Despite lacking political experience, they leverage their economic strength, social support, and cinematic fame for political purposes. Through their on-screen image and roles, they create a perception among audiences that they are "saviors," paving the way for their political journey.   In the Telugu states, N.T. Rama Rao (NTR) stands as a prime example. After gaining immense popularity as an actor, he founded the Telugu Desam Party in 1982 and became Chief Minister within months. His cinematic fame and the emot...

By T.Chiranjeevulu, IAS (Ret). The Plight of Bahujans in Telugu Cinema – A Bitter Portrayal (Dedicated to Fish Venkat – In response to an artist’s pain)   Today, some newspapers reported that the children of the late actor Fish Venkat lamented the Telugu film industry’s inadequate response to his death. It’s true—the Telugu cinema industry is a domain captive to the dominance of upper-caste groups like Kammas, Reddys, Rajus, Kapus, and, in recent times, Velamas. Why would they care when a Backward Caste (BC) or Bahujan artist passes away? The film industry is a field rife with rampant caste discrimination at every step.   Cinema is not just a medium for entertainment; it is a powerful platform for social consciousness and change. Many Bahujans have embodied artistry in their way of life, through songs, dramas, folk arts, and stage plays—forming the backbone of these traditions. However, in the very film industry that thrives on this artistic legacy, Bahujans are deni...