A collective of 46 independent filmmakers in India has publicly criticized both theatrical chains and OTT platforms for their systemic bias against smaller films, following the limited release of Kanu Behl’s critically acclaimed feature Agra. The statement, released by Behl on his Instagram account, underscores a growing frustration among indie filmmakers over their struggle for visibility despite global recognition.

Behl, whose film explores complex themes of sexuality and family dynamics, lamented that Agra has been denied screens in multiplexes. He wrote, “We’re being denied shows because of the so-called ‘big blockbusters’ and because small films ‘don’t fit into’ multiplex chain programming. It’s up to you, the audience now! Speak up and tag the chains. Say that you want to see the film.”

The joint statement, signed by notable filmmakers such as Nandita Das, Vasan Bala, and Payal Kapadia, highlights the irony that Indian independent films—often celebrated internationally at prestigious festivals including Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance, Locarno, Rotterdam, and Busan—struggle to reach audiences in their own country. The filmmakers criticized the longstanding practice of giving limited showings, including early-morning or weekend-only slots, show cancellations, and other restrictive measures.

The filmmakers also turned their attention to OTT platforms, questioning the requirement that films “prove themselves” in theatres before digital release. They called for equitable showtimes, transparency in programming, dedicated independent film showcase cycles, support from both public and private exhibition channels, and parity in OTT acquisitions.

Agra, co-written by Behl and Atika Chohan, is an Indo-French production by Saregama India Ltd., UFO Production, and O28 Films. The film premiered at the Directors’ Fortnight at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival and has since won several accolades, including the Special Jury Award at the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, Best Indie Film and Best Actor at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, and Best Film and Best Actor at the 2024 New York Indian Film Festival.

Behl’s previous film, Titli (2015), also premiered at Cannes, establishing him as a filmmaker with a consistent global presence. Yet, despite international acclaim, Agra faces the same obstacles many independent Indian films encounter: restricted screenings and the overshadowing dominance of commercial blockbusters in multiplex programming.

Through the statement, the filmmakers emphasized that unless systemic changes are made, there is a risk of “collective erasure” of independent cinema in India. Behl urged audiences to actively demand access to such films, asserting that public support could challenge the monopolistic tendencies of multiplex chains and foster a healthier ecosystem for indie cinema.

This controversy sheds light on broader tensions within India’s film industry, where commercially driven exhibition practices often marginalize small-scale and content-driven cinema, even as these films continue to garner international recognition and critical acclaim.

The release of the joint statement signals a united effort by India’s indie filmmakers to demand fair treatment, equitable access, and recognition for films that challenge conventional narratives and storytelling approaches. It is a call not only to distributors and OTT platforms but also to audiences to play an active role in sustaining independent filmmaking in India.