Amendment in Film Act allows India-Pak filmmakers to work together

Mumbai, June 22 (UNI) Indian filmmakers can now work with their Pakistani counterparts following the amendment in the neighbouring country's Film Rules Act, 1980, which removes restrictions on Indian artistes.

The Pakistan Ministry of Culture has ammended the Act by deleting paragraph 5, thus making way for Indian actors to cross the borders to work in films in the neighbouring country.

Speaking to UNI, prominent Indian filmmakers said this move will further thaw the ice between two countries.

Ravi Chopra, son of the legendary filmmaker B R Chopra of BR Films who has made films like 'Baghbaan' starring Big B and Hema Malini termed the move ''excellent.'' ''Anything that increases friendship between the two countries is excellent. We are of the same stock. It is sad that there is tension between us. The situation should be such that we can walk there any time and they can walk here anytime. This move is excellent,'' he said.

Kunal Kohli, the maker of films like 'Hum Tum' and 'Fanaa' said, ''This is a very good first step. But there should be a good second step too. Using our actors is not enough, our films should be allowed to be released there too.

Shyam Shroff, distributor of Shringar Films felt the move will benefit Pakistan more than India. He said, ''Their production is down in the dumps at the moment. After this move, their production activity will improve, which will in turn improve the exhibition sectors leading to opening of more theatres there.'' Romesh Sharma, maker of 'Hum' starring Big B and Kimi Katkar said, ''This is a very welcome move. Their artists have been coming here and performing. There is a lot of talent on both sides. This kind of profile will lead a lasting impression.

They are very good in television too.'' Mahesh Bhatt, maker of hit films like 'Gangster', 'Arth', 'Naam' and many others said, ''Anything which is not mutually beneficial will not work. But this move is mutually beneficial to India-Pak and the entire South-Asian films. It will usher a new dawn.

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