Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said that the provincial government is taking practical steps to revive Pakistan’s film industry.
For this, she stated, the government is establishing a Film City and it has launch Film Funds. The positive impact, she added, will soon become visible.
She expressed these views while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Punjabi film “Mukho.”
Film director Sangeeta, veteran actor Ghulam Mohiuddin, Moammar Rana, Meera Jee, Raheela Agha and Parvez Kaleem attended. Shehzad Rafiq, Safdar Malik, Saud Butt, and other prominent personalities from the film industry have also attended.
Azma Bokhari said that the Punjab government will provide state-of-the-art facilities for filmmakers and artists at the Film City. It will help the local film industry grow in line with international standards, she said. Azma added that the launch of Film Funds will accelerate the production and release of new films. Hence injecting fresh energy into the industry.
Cinema Halls in Arts Councils:
She announced that the government will soon issue notification for the establishment of cinema halls in all Arts Councils across Punjab. It will provide the public with greater access to quality films and entertainment, she said.
The minister emphasized that quality films should reflect society positively and should not cater to a particular segment of the population. She noted that films serve as a mirror of a nation’s culture and civilization. And can play a significant role in bringing about positive social change. She added that if Pakistan can produce high-quality television dramas, it is equally capable of producing world-class films, provided there are strong subjects and compelling scripts.
Azma Bokhari said that the Chief Minister of Punjab has already taken the first major step toward the revival of the film industry. And it is now the responsibility of industry stakeholders to seize this opportunity by producing meaningful and high-quality films. She stressed the importance of creating opportunities for young filmmakers, writers, and artists to showcase their talent and contribute to the industry’s growth.
She further said that it is important to send a message to the world that Pakistan’s film industry is very much alive and possesses immense potential for growth. To attract young audiences back to cinemas, the country must produce engaging, high-quality films that reflect social values and cultural identity.
Concluding the ceremony, Azma Bokhari congratulated the team behind “Mukho” and expressed hope that Pakistani cinema would witness the release of more quality films in the future, enabling the film industry to reach new heights of success and recognition.
