Manoj Joshi Reveals OTT Myth: Why Films Still Rule Despite Streaming Boom

Veteran actor Manoj Joshi has spoken out against the belief that OTT platforms are causing films to fail. He insists that quality content will always bring people to theaters regardless of streaming options. Joshi also reflected on IFFI's role in presenting Indian culture to the world through cinema. The festival's opening ceremony featured cultural performances and honored industry veterans like Nandamuri Balakrishna.

Key Points: Manoj Joshi Rejects OTT Dominance Myth at IFFI 2025

  • Manoj Joshi dismisses OTT dominance as a myth affecting film success
  • He emphasizes good content remains key to attracting theater audiences
  • Joshi highlights growing national subjects in Indian cinema
  • The actor praises IFFI for showcasing Indian culture globally
2 min read

Manoj Joshi rejects OTT dominance on films' success, calls it a myth

Veteran actor Manoj Joshi dismisses claims that OTT platforms are killing cinema, emphasizing that good content will always draw audiences to theaters.

"The myth that films are not working today because of OTT platforms will go away. There is nothing like that. - Manoj Joshi"

Panaji, November 21

Veteran actor Manoj Joshi attended the opening ceremony of the International Film Festival of India 2025 (IFFI) on Thursday, where he reflected on the legacy of films amid a growth in the OTT sector.

Speaking to ANI, Manoj Joshi opened up about the "myth" surrounding the downfall of films due to OTT content.

"I feel even if AI has entered our world, we should remember that technology is here because of us and not the other way around. The myth that films are not working today because of OTT platforms will go away. There is nothing like that. If the content is good, people go to watch films, and they will go. Today, a lot of national subjects have started coming to the fore. This is also a great thing," he shared.

Joshi also reflected on the journey of the International Film Festival of India and how it has been presenting the Indian culture to the world.

"I have been coming to IFFI for the past few years. This is the largest Indian film festival in the world. Every year, something new happens here. Indian culture is reflected in every part of the festival. The way our Korean sister (South Korean lawmaker Jaewon Kim) sang Vande Mataram at the inaugural ceremony has strongly shown India's greatness and its heritage,' the actor added.

The curtains of the 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) unfurled on Thursday with a historic parade, a blend of cultural performances and a cinematic tribute to upcoming and past iconic movies of India.

The opening ceremony of IFFI 2025 was attended by numerous stars, including Anupam Kher, Muzaffar Ali, Nandamuri Balakrishna, and others.

Apart from the inaugural addresses by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Governor of Goa Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan, the opening ceremony also witnessed the facilitation of South superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna for completing 50 years in the entertainment industry.

Adding to the excitement, the historic parade also witnessed tributes to the iconic scenes and films of Hindi cinema.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I respect his opinion, I think he's underestimating how OTT has changed viewing habits. Many people now prefer watching content at home, especially with rising ticket prices. Both can coexist though!
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Sarah B
The Korean lawmaker singing Vande Mataram sounds incredible! This is what makes IFFI special - showcasing Indian culture to the world. 🇮🇳
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Arjun K
Quality content will always find its audience, whether on OTT or in theaters. Recent hits like Kantara and RRR proved that people will flock to theaters for good stories. Manoj Joshi is spot on!
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Nikhil C
As someone from Goa, proud to see IFFI growing every year! The blend of traditional and modern in our film industry is what makes it special. Both cinema and OTT have their place.
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Kavya N
The point about national subjects coming to the fore is so true! We're seeing more authentic Indian stories now, and that's what audiences want. OTT helped but cinema will always be king for big-screen experiences.

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