If you have been keeping an eye on the Indian entertainment landscape over the last few years, you’ve likely noticed a massive shift. Regional content is no longer just regional it’s global. And when it comes to revolutionizing Marathi content, one name stands out prominently: Akshay Bardapurkar, the founder and CMD of Planet Marathi.
Recently, Akshay’s pioneering vision received major national recognition. He was honored with the prestigious ‘Made In India Icons 2021’ award, presented by the former Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and Goa, Shri Bhagat Singh Koshiyari. Hosted by the Namo Cine TV Nirmatta Association, this award recognizes leaders who aren’t just doing business, but are actively transforming industries.
Taking Marathi Cinema Beyond Borders
For decades, high-quality Marathi films and theatre often struggled to find widespread digital distribution outside Maharashtra. Akshay Bardapurkar set out to change this narrative entirely.
Driven by the tagline ‘Ma Maanaacha, M Marathicha’, he launched Planet Marathi OTT on June 30, 2021. It marked a huge turning point: India’s very first dedicated Marathi streaming platform.
Over 1,000 Hours of Binge-Worthy Regional Content
Instead of waiting for main-stream platforms to pick up local stories, Planet Marathi built a dedicated home for them. The platform debuted with over a thousand hours of diverse content—ranging from gripping dramas and comedies to inspiring documentaries.
Introducing the First-Day, First-Show Pay-Per-View Model
Planet Marathi didn’t just stop at offering subscription streaming. To support filmmakers directly, Akshay introduced a unique pay-per-view model. This gave audiences across the world the ability to buy digital tickets for brand-new theatrical releases from the comfort of their homes.
The feature launched with the critically acclaimed movie “June”, starring Nehha Pendse and Siddharth Menon, establishing a whole new direct-to-consumer standard for regional films.
A Moment of Pride and Gratitude
Receiving a state-level honor at the hands of the Honorable Governor is no small feat, but for Akshay, the recognition is a reminder of a larger mission.
“I have always firmly believed that Marathi art, films, and our rich language have so much to offer to the world. As torchbearers of this legacy, it’s our responsibility to take these stories across international borders. Receiving the ‘Made In India Icons 2021’ award from the Honorable Governor is a moment of pure gratitude. While awards aren’t the main goal, this encouragement gives us the drive to keep pushing boundaries.”
Backed by Akshay’s leadership and strategic backing from Vistas Media Capital, Planet Marathi has become a true catalyst for artists, directors, and storytellers who want their work seen worldwide.
The Vision Forward for Planet Marathi
The Namo Cine TV Nirmatta Association event brought together some of the biggest names in television and film, including producers, actors, and directors. Recognizing Akshay Bardapurkar as a ‘Made In India Icon’ underlines how crucial digital innovation is for traditional media.
As a producer, filmmaker, philanthropist, and media entrepreneur, Akshay Bardapurkar continues to push the boundaries of what regional cinema can achieve. This milestone isn’t just a personal win it’s a landmark moment for the entire Marathi entertainment fraternity.