Tollywood Strike: Key Issues and Industry Concerns
The ongoing discussions around the Tollywood workers’ strike have brought several key issues to light. Producers have expressed their willingness to offer a reasonable wage increase for workers earning below ₹1,500 per day. However, they argue that raising wages for many other union members, who currently draw over ₹3,500 per day, is not financially viable.
With theatre revenues declining and the OTT/satellite markets tightening, producers warn that any significant wage hike could severely impact film production in Telangana. They also caution that such changes may discourage other language film industries from choosing Telangana as a shooting destination.
Notably, the Telugu film industry already pays higher wages compared to its Malayalam and Tamil counterparts. However, industry insiders point out that skill development is not being promoted, as union membership fees run into lakhs of rupees, and no training programs are encouraged to help workers adapt to the evolving needs of modern filmmaking.Producers have also raised concerns about the lack of transparency, stating that unions often do not disclose worker details when requested. In addition, restrictions on bringing in technicians from other industries or countries are further limiting options for production houses.The deadlock continues, with both sides yet to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.
