Indian films bleeding from taxation: Zoya Akhtar

Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar has expressed concern over the heavy taxation on Indian films, which she says is "backbreaking" for producers. The "Dil Dhadakne Do" helmer called upon the government to support the industry. "I think what really needs to happen is that we need to stop getting taxed as much we do, because Hollywood films aren't as taxed as the Indian films are. The Indian films are bleeding with the amount of taxation.

"We are paying taxes for entertainment, which is a logical tax, and we are paying taxes for service. So are we a luxury or are we a service? We just keep paying tax," Zoya told reporters. The 43-year-old "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" director said the government should take steps to support the film industry for it to flourish. "I think the government really needs to help and understand that we have to support the industry. We have to make sure the industry gets stronger and bigger and doesn't get eaten up by foreign films. That's the only way to help."

Zoya was speaking at the launch of a, English movie channel, believes Indian cinema is coming out with content-driven films to compete with Hollywood. "We are making content-driven cinema, there are a lot of films coming out. So I don't think it's the problem. I really think it is the restructuring and understanding how much taxes the producers are paying. It is backbreaking," she said, reports PTI.