Film industry isn't on upward swing at the moment: KJo

Filmmaker Karan Johar, who was present at the World Economic Forum here on Thursday, said that the movie industry is fighting obstacles in the form of digital and television.

"When we talk about my industry, the movies, I feel extremely unfortunate when we say that we are not really on an upward swing at the moment. Cinema and cricket used to be two forces of entertainment on our land, and now, we (cinema) are fighting so many obstacles internally with other verticals, like digital and television are constantly growing and we are still surviving and combating reduced footfalls in cinemas," he said during a panel discussion at the event.

Adding, "And the other thing that has emerged is the voice in cinema, which has grown stronger. It's no longer just a purpose of entertainment. It's no longer about frivolous song and dance. We have gone back to the grassroots and heartland stories to embody and modify the thought process of our nation. While I am positive about the content, I am hopeful for the increased economy of the movies. And when it comes to India, I am hoping for a glorious second half and a great innings ahead."

Karan looked dapper in a black shirt, striped suit and trousers with a grey tie.

Also present at the event were Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt.

On the work front, KJo's Dharma Productions is producing Alia's Bhatt's upcoming film 'Raazi,' alongside Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the film is set to release on May 1, 2018.