MUMBAI: Calling the entertainment fraternity the most powerful group in the country, the chairman and chief mentor Infosys Technologies NR Narayana Murthy closed the three-day entertainment convention by throwing light on how to globalise Indian entertainment.
The first prerequisite that Murthy pointed out was the adoption of a global mindset. Drawing parallels between the IT and the entertainment industry, he said the way ahead was to capitalise on the power of globalisation. The second aspect being high aspiration levels. Murthy said this was the very ingredient that helped the IT industry to mark a niche for itself on the global agenda.
"For India to grow, it is paramount that it moves from an agriculture-driven economy to a services and manufacturing one. I believe that we have to focus on the global market. And this is perfectly possible if one takes on global themes," he said. Pointing out India's advantage, Murthy said adventure and history were two themes that were all encompassing. "Why can't we make a film on John F Kennedy or Ronald Reagan?"
Murthy also pointed out that social drama in Mexico and India are very similar. He therefore proposed that if TV dramas and films could be produced with a conglomerate of international artists then that would not only be a beginning of the internationalisation of content but also a very successful strategy.
He emphasised the fact that films need to propound international values and need to have the scalability to do so. Murthy said this would only be possible if corporatisation of the entertainment industry takes place.
Another point made was the need to raise the quality of human resources. The common challenge in the knowledge market was said to be that of retaining the best within the industry.
Murthy also talked about the lack of film training institutes in the country. He said the need of the hour was to set up a lot for FTII's in the country as well as a constant upgradation for professionals who move up the hierarchy.
Project management was also a concept that Murthy stated was essential for the growth of the business. "Project management needs to be incorporated into the showbiz sector," he said.
Interesting food for thought was the reference made by Murthy on movies like 'Gandhi' and 'The Story of Islam', where he pointed out that though both subjects were very Indian in nature, they were both made by westerners.
Going ahead, he stated that once corporatisation takes place, investments would need to come in and for that investors would be required. This was where Murthy brought in the concept of corporate governance and the call for a transparent and integral process.
Stating the two philosophies of Infosys Murthy says, "When in doubt, disclose and the softest pillow is a clear conscience."
Murthy concluded FRAMES 2005 with a sincere request to the fraternity at large asking for a reduction of violence and rape acts witnessed today on TV and films. "Make wholesome entertainment at a global level and I am sure that the Indian entertainment industry will soon be a $ 500 billion industry."
