Bollywood has miles to go before becoming global: Chandra

Dubai, Apr 2 (UNI) Though Bollywood has great potential it will take some time to become organised enough to attract foreign investment and go global, according to Essel Group and Zee Network Chairman Subhash Chandra.

"Bollywood will consolidate its position, but it is still far away from acquiring a global position in terms of turnover. There is an opportunity there," he told the Gulf News.

Referring to the regulatory side of media business, Mr Chandra said India is a free market.

"There is no country that gives so much freedom to the media.

Foreigners can invest up to 100 per cent in film production. They can own television channels, entertainment channels," he said.

But filmmaking is a problem right from the start of production, he said, pointing out that for a population of one billion people there are only six heroes and maybe an equal number of heroines. So there is a limit to making films with superstars, and they are not disciplined, he added.

However, Mr Chandra said, by 2015 or 2020 Indian cinema can make an impact globally and it could get further propelled if it enters the Chinese market.

UNI