Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka urged young filmmakers to highlight climate change, rising temperatures and water scarcity through socially responsible cinema.
Addressing the Bathukamma Young Filmmaker Challenge Awards–2026 at Shilpakala Vedika on Saturday, he called for films that combined entertainment with social awareness.
He said cinema could encourage audiences to examine pressing social problems and take action. Therefore, he asked aspiring directors to develop compelling stories with meaningful messages.
Bhatti Vikramarka also outlined the Telangana government’s ambition to establish Hyderabad as a major centre for Indian cinema. He said the government wanted to expand the city’s reputation beyond its established position as a leading hub for Telugu films.
Moreover, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting emerging cinematic talent from Telangana and strengthening Hyderabad’s standing in the national film industry.
Young filmmakers encouraged to promote social change
Bhatti Vikramarka encouraged young filmmakers to explore innovative ideas and storytelling techniques that could contribute to positive social change. He compared their professional aspirations with Bathukamma, Telangana’s traditional floral festival, and expressed hope that their careers would flourish.
The Deputy Chief Minister attended the awards ceremony as the chief guest. He also formally inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Referring to Bathukamma’s cultural significance, he described the festival as an expression of Telangana’s identity and collective spirit.
He explained that flowers of different colours and fragrances came together to form Bathukamma. Similarly, people from different social backgrounds participated in the celebrations. He said this collective participation reflected unity in diversity and strengthened the festival’s social significance.
Furthermore, Bhatti Vikramarka described Bathukamma as a symbol of social justice, equality and unity. He emphasised these values while encouraging the next generation of filmmakers to create cinema that addressed society’s concerns.