Bhatti urges young filmmakers to champion social causes

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka has called upon young filmmakers to use the power of cinema to raise awareness about pressing social issues, including climate change, rising temperatures and the looming threat of water scarcity.

Addressing the Bathukamma Young Filmmaker Challenge Awards–2026 at Shilpakala Vedika in Hyderabad on Saturday, he encouraged aspiring directors to tell compelling stories that combine entertainment with meaningful social messages and inspire people to think and act.

Bhatti Vikramarka said the State government aimed to transform Hyderabad from a major hub for Telugu cinema into a prominent destination for Indian cinema. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to nurturing young cinematic talent from Telangana and strengthening the city's position on the national filmmaking map.

Drawing a parallel with Bathukamma, the State's iconic floral festival, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed the hope that the lives and careers of young filmmakers would blossom with success. He urged them to come forward with innovative ideas and creative storytelling that could bring about positive social change.

Bhatti Vikramarka, who attended the event as the chief guest, inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

Describing Bathukamma as a reflection of Telangana's cultural identity and spirit, he said the festival symbolised unity in diversity. Just as flowers of different colours and fragrances come together to form Bathukamma, people from diverse social backgrounds come together to celebrate the festival, he observed. Bhatti Vikramarka said Bathukamma embodied the values of social justice, equality and unity