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"It is important for them (government) to realise the importance that we are an industry and whatever we do is for the public. And that our focus is not frivolous entertainment.
Our base is becoming broader and we are also making social, economic and political changes by our cinema. So to recognize what we do is very critical," Johar told reporters here, at the inaugural session of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Frames, on Wednesday.
"We are also bogged down by certain kind of regulations, taxes etc. Like we are talking about piracy since quite some time...we need the support of Government to control piracy.. it is an ongoing war. We would need support of government on taxes and other issues," he said.
On his expectations from this year`s Budget, Johar said, "It is our desire that we (film industry) don`t get ignored in the budget. We entertain people all over the country so it would be great if they think about us. Let the government realise the importance of what we do and what we are trying to achieve through media and entertainment industry."
The producer-director, who is the Co-Chairman of the FICCI Entertainment Committee, was also overwhelmed by the presence and support of Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan at the event.
"Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan had come and his support does mean a lot to the film industry. We hope we keep getting the support of government and also from the Centre," Johar said.
According to a recent report by FICCI and KPMG, a strong growth in Tier-II cities, the continued march of regional media and the rapidly expanding new media business helped the media and entertainment industry log a 12 percent increase in revenues, at Rs 729 billion in 2011. The industry is estimated to grow at 13 percent in 2012, upto Rs 823 billion.
