In this Industry Spotlight with Creative First, Vikram Malhotra, Founder & CEO of Abundantia Entertainment, discussed the company’s journey and the future of Indian cinema with Lohita Sujith, Sr. Director, Copyright & Digital Economy, Motion Picture Association. Vikram, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer of Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, has been instrumental in producing several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films such as Baby, Airlift, Shakuntala Devi and Sherni.

Vikram shared insights on the growing global audience for Indian stories, emphasizing India’s potential to not only consume but also produce content for international markets. He predicted that India would soon become a hub for content creation, with Indian films and shows resonating globally, similar to the cultural impact of Hollywood and Korean cinema. He highlighted Abundantia’s ambition to export content worldwide, focusing on creating unique and relatable stories that connect with a global audience.

The discussion also touched upon the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the entertainment industry. Vikram explained how AI is already being integrated into content creation and how it will revolutionize the industry by enhancing storytelling and production processes. He noted that while AI will not replace human creativity, it will serve as a powerful tool to amplify imagination and streamline content production.

Vikram praised the Indian Government’s initiatives to attract international film productions through incentives and subsidies. He shared Abundantia’s positive experiences filming in states like Madhya Pradesh, where they received substantial support, including financial aid and streamlined processes.

Reflecting on the industry’s evolution over the past few years, Vikram highlighted that technological advancements and changing consumer preferences have driven significant shifts. He expressed optimism about the future, noting that the industry’s maturation would lead to sustained growth and increased investment.

Looking ahead, Vikram outlined Abundantia’s focus on developing progressive Indian stories for a global audience. He emphasized the importance of creating content that appeals to the evolving younger demographic, particularly those under 25 years. Abundantia’s upcoming slate for 2024-2026 includes a mix of films, original shows, and short-form content, all aimed at pushing creative boundaries and achieving new levels of excellence.

In conclusion, Vikram expressed excitement about Abundantia’s future, mentioning that the company is well-positioned to scale new heights in the coming years. Abundantia’s commitment to storytelling that is both entertaining and forward-looking, ensuring its relevance in an increasingly globalized market.