Manoj Bajpayee: Indie films struggle for recognition amidst blockbuster dominance with likes of Tiger, Jawan

At the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, a thought-provoking Master Class on Crafting Compelling Web Series for OTT platforms unfolded. Renowned personalities from the film industry, including Manoj Bajpayee, Raj Nidimoru, Krishna D.K., Apoorva Bakshi, and Srikrishna Dayal, gathered for a discussion moderated by Naman Ramachandran. The session delved into the intricacies of creating narratives that resonate with digital audiences on Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms.

A key highlight of the conversation was Manoj Bajpayee's reflection on the evolving landscape of streaming services. Bajpayee voiced his concern over the diminishing presence of independent content on OTT platforms. In a recent discussion, he pointed out a significant shift in focus from supporting independent cinema to spotlighting blockbuster productions.

"The independent cinema movement that started and was getting such mentorship from the OTT platforms is gone. And that is a very sad development," expressed Bajpayee. He emphasized the critical need to nurture new voices and provide platforms for them, praising the earlier initiatives that aimed in that direction. Bajpayee stressed that without space for independent creativity, the industry may progress financially but lack growth in terms of creative exploration.

The respected actor voiced his belief that securing funding equivalent to big-budget blockbusters like Jawan, Pathaan, or Tiger 3 is unimaginable for independent films. Shedding light on the challenges faced by independent films, he highlighted the unfavorable scheduling of early morning shows, making it challenging for them to garner attention. Bajpayee earnestly urged platforms to revive mentorship initiatives, asserting that this support is crucial for the survival and success of independent cinema in the industry.

In the midst of this discussion, Bajpayee came into spotlight for the trailer for his upcoming project, Joram. The preview offers a glimpse into a distinctive and raw portrayal by the actor, set to grace the screens on 8th December.