Team Herald
PONDA: Film Makers Association President Milind Madgut and film and drama producer Mahadev (Apa) Khanolkar on Friday protested the appointment of Rajendra Talak as the vice chairman of Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG).
Addressing the press at Ponda, the duo said that they have submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar protesting Talak’s appointment.
Listing the reasons for their protest, they said Talak is the most controversial film producer in Goa; when he was a director on ESG board, he used his position for his ulterior motive; he had harassed many film makers; in 2009, when refused to allow famous actress Rati Agnihotri to walk on red carpet; during an IFFI edition, he presented many of his own films and bagged 13 awards.
Further, they alleged, Talak did not allow a red carpet walk for Goan actor Laxmikant Shetagaonkar, who has won an international award.
Khanolkar said since IFFI is not encouraging any Goan artists, Rs 13.5 crore spent on the festival is a waste of taxpayer money. Hence, he demanded, instead of spending money on IFFI, the same should be utilised to promote film studio, film city etc. “The IFFI has become business for few to earn their livelihood,” he alleged.
