Tollywood strike intensifies: Producers, Unions clash amid legal notices & negotiations

The ongoing strike by the Telugu Film Industry Employees Federation has stirred significant unrest within Tollywood, drawing sharp reactions from producers and union leaders.

Amid halted film shoots and rising tensions, a recent legal notices filed by producer TG Vishwa Prasad have escalated the situation.

What happened?

The situation escalated further on Friday when producer TG Vishwaprasad issued legal notices to TFIEF President Anilkumar Vallabhaneni and General Secretary Ammiraju Kanumilli. The notice, filed in the Nampally City Court, cited financial losses incurred due to the ongoing workers’ strike, which led to the halting of film shoots.

General Secretary Ammiraju Kanumilli responded to TG Vishwaprasad’s complaint and addressed the ongoing strike.

TG Vishwa Prasad confronts TFIEF

* Abnormally high membership fees act as a barrier, limiting the influx of fresh talent and hindering skill development. The widening gap results from groups that obstruct both skill advancement & new entrants.* The employees’ strike caused me severe financial losses due to halted shooting schedules.

* Hyderabad is home to exceptional talent. Currently, about 60-70% of the workforce involved in Telugu cinema comes from this pool. -TG Vishwa Prasad, producer

* We collect membership fees because the funds are used for essential purposes like health insurance and supporting the families of members in the event of death. These contributions are made with good intentions and serve important needs.* Our intention was never to cause problems for filmmakers or producers.

The film industry survives because of the investment and support of producers — they are the ones who help us earn our livelihood. Our only demand for the workers has been a fair wage. That’s all.* Skill exists in both Telugu states, and while some people do bring in talent from outside, which is also acceptable.Ammiraju Kanumilli, General Secretary TFIEF

TFCC issues strike directive

On Friday, the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce released a statement advising, “All members are hereby instructed to refrain from engaging in any discussions or negotiations with individual unions under the Telugu Film Industry Employees Federation that have initiated a unilateral strike, until further notice.

Studios, outdoor units, and infrastructure service providers are strictly directed not to offer any services without prior notification and explicit approval from the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce.

”

What’s Next?

Federation leaders are expected to meet Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy on Friday to discuss the ongoing issues. Meanwhile, the strike will enter its seventh day on Sunday and will continue until further notice.