CSpace: Kerala to launch India's first state-owned OTT platform on November 1, 2022

We had already told you Kerala would be launching a State-owned over-the-top (OTT) platform, CSpace, starting November 1, which will offer film buffs, an array of movies, short films and documentaries of their choice.

An initiative of Kerala State Film Development Corporation, on behalf of the state government, Saji Cherian, Kerala's Minister for Cultural Affairs and Cinema, revealed the name of the OTT platform as CSpace, via video conferencing, at an event in Kalabhavan Theatre. The launch of CSpace will coincide with the state's formation day on November 1.

Referring to CSpace as a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, Cherian observed the launch of the state-owned OTT would mark a new beginning and assured that it will considerably help in the growth of Malayalam cinema. "The new OTT will not create a crisis for the existing movie business. Films will be streamed on CSpace only after their theatrical release," he noted, insisting, "CSpace ensures profit sharing, transparency and high-end technical quality."

Cherian added the OTT platform will showcase films with artistic value, along with internationally recognised and award-winning films, besides, the best ones screened at the annual International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).

The registration of films to be streamed on CSpace will begin on June 1, for which necessary arrangements have been made at Chitranjali Studio as well as the head office of Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC). "Sufficient funds will be provided for the renovation of government-owned theatres and necessary funds have already been provided for the project to transform Chitranjali Studio into a favourite shooting location of filmmakers," Cherian said.

Noting that OTT has a global appeal in the internet era, KSFDC chairman Karun, an award-winning director and cinematographer, said it offers a wide reach for films without language barriers. "CSpace assures transparency and it ensures that the producers or their families will get a long-lasting income like a pension on their intellectual property," he added.

"Unlike certain other OTT platforms, CSpace gives the facility to watch a particular film by paying for it alone. One part of the amount given for the film by the viewer will go to the producer, who will get his share whenever viewers watch that film," observed KSFDC Managing Director N Maya.

KSFDC, established in 1975, is the first public sector corporation for film development in India.