‘Tollywood didn’t do enough’

Hyderabad: While Tollywood’s initiative the telethon Memu Saitam has been dubbed a noble idea by many, renowned film personality Thammareddy Bharadwaj is of the opinion that whatever was done wasn’t enough. “It is sad that in spite of the whole industry coming together, we collected only Rs 11.5 crore. The irony is that during the same time, singer SP Balasubramanyam collected Rs 1 crore through a one hour show in Chittoor. Just imagine what 13 hours of ‘Memu Saitam’ could have done, considering that all the big stars were under one roof,” he said.

• Thammareddy says very little contribution to Hudhud relief
• Entire industry raised only Rs 11.5 cr in a 13-hour event
• But, SP Balu alone collected Rs 1 cr through just one show
• Some actors not keen on performing at such events

He expressed concern that some of the young actors were not forthcoming to perform during such events. Some senior actors also did not consider performing at all. “Everyone participated with great interest during the 100 years of Telugu cinema function, but this time, there wasn’t that interest and enthusiasm,” he lamented.Thammareddy also said that the artistes showing disinterest was not limited to the recent function alone.

He claims that the Telugu Nandi awards function was another instance where actors and actresses were conspicuous by their absence. “When a co-actor is being awarded, what is wrong in coming forward and cheering for them? Surprisingly, everyone makes an attendance at the Filmfare awards,” he added. The director- producer who was a part of the organising committee of ‘Memu Saitam’ urged everyone to come together so that the industry can survive as a family.