Mumbai, Dec 27: Debut director Kshitij Patwardhan has asserted that Marathi cinema will not be crushed, even as regional films continue to struggle for screen space amid the dominance of big-budget Hindi and English releases.
Patwardhan’s remarks came against the backdrop of his debut Marathi film ‘Uttar’, which released on December 12 and faced difficulties in securing adequate screens as theatres were largely occupied by the Hindi film ‘Dhurandhar’. Highlighting the challenge, the filmmaker took to social media to speak about the ongoing fight for slots for Marathi films, a post that struck a chord with audiences and industry members alike.
Many users lauded the post, calling for greater screen allocation for Marathi family entertainers. “No matter how big the Hindi or English releases are, Marathi cinema will not be crushed. The fight is on,” Patwardhan wrote.
Patwardhan, a well-known name in Maharashtra’s creative circles, has previously worked as a screenwriter and creative contributor on projects such as ‘Singham Again’, ‘Taali’ and ‘Chhava’, and is also an established theatre director, lyricist and playwright.
Reflecting on the industry’s trajectory, he said Marathi cinema is rebuilding audience trust and entering a phase of meaningful transformation. Citing the Marathi film ‘Sabar Bonda’, which was recently screened in New York, Patwardhan said stories rooted in local contexts can find global resonance if promoted effectively. “If marketed properly, the entire world is at your fingertips,” he said.
He noted that filmmakers are increasingly thinking about international audiences, language adaptations and universal themes, which is helping expand the reach of Marathi films. According to him, eight debut directors made a mark this year, signalling renewed confidence within the industry.
Patwardhan also revealed that he is experimenting with artificial intelligence in his upcoming work, describing it as a creative aid rather than a substitute. “AI is a process enhancer and not a process replacer,” he said, adding that technology cannot replace lived human experiences that shape storytelling.
He further observed that a healthier creative ecosystem is emerging, with mainstream and experimental streams beginning to support each other, marking a positive shift for Marathi cinema.
