‘Tax Free’ absorption in India. Biopics Work!

What makes a movie tax free in India? This could well be subject of analysis since it works as respite for the producers who always seem to long for it. A ‘Tax Free’ tag as we understand not only exempts the viewers to pay extra money but more importantly exhibits a strong message outside.

Putting it in simpler words, at a time when stars, filmmakers go to any extent to publicise their product, there is no better promotion than being honoured with a tax free eminence. It just enhances the quality of your subject and cements it with an approved seal. Some state governments agreed on making Mardaani tax free since the film dealt with an issue like human trafficking. To be eligible to get your film tax free, it has to be impactful, the subject has to be an informative source of medium for a wider audience. Putting it in a nutshell, the film has to be in the best of national interest so that it sends a positive message out.

Maharashtra government has reportedly made Priyanka Chopra starrer Mary Kom tax free in their state. Mary Kom is a biopic based on the life of Olympic winner and a 5 time World champion boxer from the north east by the same name. The film owing to its appeal looks a certain prospect for other states as well to make it tax free. Directed by Omung Kumar, Mary Kom is ready to hit the screens next Friday and is expected to fetch a good start with so much going in its favour. The decision made by the government must have surely brought brighter delight for the cast and crew of the film.

What’s interesting here is to see the trend that is being set. Without going too much in the past, if last two or three years are to be taken into account, then biopics have laid a higher impact. Bhag Milkha Bhag in 2013, Paan Singh Tomar in 2012 were some movies that became tax free but were also applauded by the larger audience. May be the mantra for winning from all sides is to craft a biopic on national heroes. Chak De India, The Legend of Bhagat Singh, Rockstar, Guru are some biopic examples of not only winning over box office but also the critical appreciation along with much highlighted national acknowledgment. While the fate of May Kom is yet not sealed, but the official gifts have started coming in.

There are no set parameters for a film to be judged on being exempted on tax but there’s a pattern. While the industry expects the government to spare the viewers of extra money, it obviously comes as a responsibility for them to make those decisions. That’s how films like Taare Zameen Par, 3 Idiots, Rang De Basanti, Iqbal etc earn the honour they deserve. For a valiant and honest effort by the filmmaker, a little contribution by the government would do more good than harm. Simple!