Kannada film shoots stalled because of demonetization

The currency demonetization came as a surprise to people on Tuesday, with many not prepared for the immediate outcome. The Kannada industry has taken a beating, given how this short notice makes it inconvenient for many filmmakers to proceed/plan their shoot schedules. Many filmmakers were stumped with the decision, but hailed PM Narendra Modi's step to curb corruption and black money.
An industry insider says, 'It is not easy to suddenly begin working with cheques, given that the industry has always dealt with cash transactions across the board.'
Shooting of several under-production films has apparently been temporarily halted as production teams are unable to source smaller denomination notes to make payments to crew members, as well as for other day-to-day incidental expenses, including food and beverages, rentals on props like vehicles, etc.
While there is no official confirmation on this, a source at the Karnataka Film Workers and Technicians Union (KFWTU) admitted that several producers called to request that work progress as usual, with the promise of arranging funds to be disbursed as payments in the next couple of days. 'Production teams have asked for 2-3 days time to organize alternate payment options. We have given them the option to make cheque payments, which should solve the problem, but if they are dealing with black money, that is an issue,' says Chennaveerappa of the KFWTU.
Industry insiders are also saying that this could affect new films that are in the pipeline. 'There will be a lot of re-evaluation of investments from producers, as they borrow money from financiers who have liquid cash at their disposal always. Some producers will have to seek newer avenues,' says the source.
Another interesting trend could be greater investment from corporate entities in Sandalwood. 'The industry has earlier seen some big corporate names from Bollywood enter, but to no avail. This might break the monopoly of certain people and allow private and corporate bodies in Sandalwood,' adds another industry watcher.
John Jani Janardhan release pushed
The release of the Kannada film John Jani Janardhan, which was to hit movie halls on November 11, has been pushed. 'Audiences have no money for their livelihood, how will they come and watch a film? The percentage of those who would buy tickets online is minimal and we cannot risk releasing the film at a time like this. It will take some time for things to revert to normalcy. We will release the film on December 9,' says producer Padmanabha Gowda.