Service Tax on Ollywood Actors

The government’s decision to levy a 12.36% service tax on film and television actors of India created protests from all around the country. Such a decision, say actors and producers, will only cripple the film industry that is in acute need of government support.

According to Odia producer Sanjay Nayak, the introduction of the service tax spells bad news for the industry. Under such circumstances, making movies in Ollywood isn’t a profitable business for producers, says Nayak.

Actor Sabyasachi feels the timing of introducing this tax is wrong for Ollywood. Says actor Babushaan, “Odia film industry is going through a rough patch already. So, the government ought to rethink about this new service tax. I feel, the producers will try to extract this money by ensuring that the ticket prices go up. So, this is an burden on us and the viewers.”

Is the government listening?