Producer Suresh Babu Daggubati becomes new president of Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce

Suresh Babu has been elected president of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce following a decisive victory for the Progressive Panel in the recently held chamber elections in Hyderabad. Polling and counting were conducted at the chamber’s office located at the Dr D Ramanaidu Building Complex on Road Number 82 in Film Nagar, one of the central hubs of Tollywood’s trade and exhibition activity.

The Progressive Panel secured 31 of the 48 executive committee seats, comfortably defeating the rival Mana Panel, which won 17 seats. The result gives the new leadership a strong mandate for the 2025-27 term. The elections witnessed an active turnout from producers, distributors, exhibitors and studio representatives, reflecting a growing desire within the industry to shape its future direction at a time of rapid change.

Suresh Babu succeeds P Bharat Bushan, who served as president during the previous term. The transition signals a new phase for the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, which represents 3,355 members across production, distribution, exhibition, studios and allied sectors, and functions as the primary trade body of the Telugu film industry.

The president of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce plays a crucial role in leading the industry’s collective voice. The position involves heading the executive committee, mediating disputes between producers, distributors and exhibitors, and representing the industry in discussions with state governments, civic authorities and regulatory bodies. The president also oversees policy decisions, addresses issues related to theatres and exhibition, resolves release and revenue-sharing conflicts, and ensures smoother coordination among different wings of the industry.

Along with Suresh Babu taking charge as president, Ashok Kumar was elected secretary, while Surya Devara Naga Vamsi and Bharat Choudary assumed office as vice presidents. Mutyala Ramadasu was elected treasurer, and Mohan Vadlapatla along with Vijayender Reddy were elected as joint secretaries. The executive committee includes several prominent figures from production, distribution and exhibition, bringing a broad mix of experience to the chamber’s leadership.

The victory holds added significance as the presidency was reserved for the exhibitors’ sector under chamber rules, a factor that played a key role in the electoral outcome. Following his win, Suresh Babu emphasised the importance of unity within the industry and spoke about working closely with all stakeholders from both Telugu states. He also highlighted priorities such as theatre sustainability, support for small and medium films, addressing operational costs and improving coordination between industry bodies.

With a clear majority and a full team in place, the new leadership is expected to usher in a proactive and reform-oriented phase for the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, balancing creative ambitions with business realities and shaping Tollywood’s next chapter.