Want award? Cut song and dance!

The Hindi film industry might have to cut out running around trees to compete in the international film market.

The Cannes International Festival authorities have expressed an interest towards increased participation in the Indian film industry. But felt the films were too long and stressed too much on song and dance for the competitive section, says Information & Broadcasting Minister Sushma Swaraj.

During her 40-minute meeting last week with Cannes President Gilles Jacob and three festival directors, Swaraj was also told that Indian entries were not on time and that in view of Cannes' exclusivity, only films which have not been sent to any other festival are accepted.

Meanwhile, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has struck deals worth Rs 10 million at the Festival. The NFDC has already signed deals worth US $ 65,000, while agreements worth US $ two lakh are underway, reveals Swaraj. NFDC has also got co-production offers from the UK, US and France.

A Spanish Company has bought three Satyajit Ray films -- Pather Panchali, Apur Sansar and Aparajita -- for US $ 45,000.

Swaraj, who was in Cannes for a day during her trip to France and UK, described it as "the wisest decision" to put up a pavilion at the Cannes Market. She also urged the industry to participate more actively.

PTI