This recommendation came from Municipal Commissioner Jairaj Phatak. In a proposal tabled with the Standing Committee, Phatak had proposed amendment in the Theatre tax, recommending “exemption from payment of Theater tax in respect of films, dramas, tamashas and one-man drama shows in all Indian regional languages, exhibited in any theatre”. However, Hindi language movies will not be included in the bracket. Phatak is of the view that Bhojpuri cinema is seen by viewers on large scale. “It is necessary to encourage cinema in regional languages,” Phatak said.

The Theatre tax collection from regional language movies is around Rs 40 lakh. The Standing Committee is expected to meet on Wednesday to discuss the proposal and give its approval.

Following a suggestion by Congress leader Rajhans Singh, the Shiv Sena-BJP-ruled BMC agreed to exempt Bhojpuri language movies.

Singh said it was a good move and all the regional language movies will benefit from it. “Bhojpuri language movies are very popular in Mumbai with over 40 lakh viewers, so they should be rightfully exempted. But, I will also welcome the decision to exempt other regional language movies,” he said. BJP leader at BMC, Bhalchandra Shirsat, too welcomed the proposal and said, “It was a demand from all of us (political parties) that besides Bhojpuri movies, other regional language movies should be exempted. We are happy that the civic administration has acted on it and tabled a proposal.”