Ajay Devgn backs independent cinema

Ajay Devgn and Brillstein Entertainment Partners have announced a partnership to form L.A.-based Shivalaya Entertainment. The development and financing outfit will focus on independent films which will aim for broad appeal.

Shivalaya has green lit its first film, Parched, described as centering on the bitter-sweet journey of women in the parched rural landscape of India. It was written and is to be directed by Leena Yadav. Her credits include 2010's Teen Patti, which starred Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan. Shivalaya will be producing with BEP executive Jai Khanna who is also serving as producer on the slate.

"At one end, traditional films continue to entertain and make business sense. At the other, there is a resounding presence of some new forms and voices making a mark in this ever expanding medium. I am keen to be a part of that growth, that change," said Devgn. "I am coming forth to support the independent film process where we can share important stories that need to be told -- global stories that will resonate with international audiences. Our collaboration with Brillstein is an important step in that direction, to ensure we have the best resources from the west to engage a wider audience."

Khanna said that the production house has projects in the pipeline targeted for an international appeal. "We will also be looking at working on projects with a diversity of talent, American or otherwise, with an aim to reach out to wider audiences," said Khanna. "The stories could be from any culture but with a universal appeal. We at Brillstein are perfectly positioned to bring these kinds of films to the table while packaging the appropriate talent that such stories merit."