For the past several weeks, the Telugu Film Industry Employees’ Federation has been in discussions with producers over a proposed wage hike. The Federation represents 24 different categories of workers in the film industry, from technical crew to production staff. Talks between both sides have been ongoing, but a final resolution had not been reached.
On August 3, 2025, the Federation held an executive committee meeting in Hyderabad to discuss the next course of action. Following detailed internal deliberations and consultations with senior members and industry veterans, the Federation has taken a formal decision.
Starting August 4, all film shootings falling under the Federation’s purview will be stopped unless producers implement a 30% increase in wages. The Federation made it clear that only those production units which officially confirm the new pay structure through a written letter will be allowed to continue shoots. Projects that fail to comply will not be recognized and must pause operations.
To coordinate ongoing discussions, the Federation has appointed Buggasamudram Muralimohan and Veeramsetty as official representatives. The Federation also confirmed that the decision was supported by key film industry figures and long-associated bodies like Sudheer Cinema and West Indian Sound Lab, who have also sent formal letters expressing support.
This move will impact several ongoing and upcoming shoots across the Telugu industry. While talks between the Federation and producers are expected to continue, the decision signals a serious stand by the workers’ body to push for better pay.
If not resolved quickly, the situation could delay multiple film schedules and affect releases in the coming months. All eyes are now on the producers’ response in the next few days.
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