The Malayalam film industry has announced a token strike on January 22, 2026, during which theatres across Kerala will close and all film shoots and related activities will be suspended for the day as a protest against ongoing economic challenges facing the sector. The decision, made jointly by various industry bodies, reflects mounting frustration with the state government’s lack of progress on long-standing demands, including relief on entertainment taxes and special electricity tariffs for cinemas and film units.
According to organisers, the strike is intended as a final warning before potentially more prolonged action unless meaningful government intervention is secured. The protest highlights deep financial strains in Mollywood, where many films struggled commercially in recent years amid rising production costs and shrinking profits, prompting calls for policy support and industry safeguards.
Industry representatives point to the impact of entertainment tax, rising operational costs and dwindling profitability as key pressures that have made film production and exhibition increasingly difficult. While discussions with government officials have taken place, no concrete outcomes have been reported, leading film bodies to escalate their stance with the January 22 work stoppage.
The strike will affect film releases, promotional activities and ongoing shoots across the state, underscoring the depth of concern within Kerala’s vibrant but economically stressed cinema ecosystem.
