The state government’s decision to provide incentive to films that showcase popular tourist destinations in Karnataka has been welcomed by Sandalwood filmmakers. They have, however, demanded that authorities allow shooting in places like Hampi, the Palace and Badami.Speaking to us, director Chethan Kumar says, “It is a good decision by the government. But getting the requisite permissions to shoot is a herculean task, which needs to be simplified so that filmmakers can explore tourist destinations. For instance, when we shot in Melkote for Bhaarate we took permission from the Mandya district administration, tourism department and local temple authorities. There should be single window clearance system for film shoots. Once permission is given, filmmakers should be able to shoot without any complications. A village called Nandigrama became popular after Hallunda Tavaru movie became popular, so movies are no doubt a vehicle for tourism. We are shooting at Badami in our next schedule, which is a tough place to get permission.”The latest policy announced by the state government has been taken by taking a cue from tourism policies in other countries. The tourism department has allocated Rs 12.5 crore for incentives to eight films (any language) in a year. A screening committee, headed by the additional chief secretary, will evaluate films on how they portray Karnataka culture, heritage structures and wildlife. These films should explore at least three out of 319 tourist hot spots that have been listed by the government under Karnataka Tourism Policy between 2015-2020. Films that score 90 and above will get an incentive up to Rs 2.5 crore, while those scoring between 75 to 90 will get Rs 1 crore. The additional rider is that each of these films should have a budget of at least Rs 5 crore.Director Manju Swaraj adds, “It is because of Gaalipata that people started visiting Mandalpatti in Madikeri . Similarly, after showing Jog Falls in Mungaru Male footfalls increased. While I agree with the government decision, a majority of tourist hot spot locations are not accessible for film shooting like Hampi, Lalbagh or the Mysuru Palace. The cost charged for shoots needs to be reduced to draw filmmakers across the country, as it is very expensive to shoot in Karnataka. In fact, the cost of shooting a song in our state is so high that we can actually shoot two songs abroad.”

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