Archive · 1 Oct 2026
Telugu Dancers’ Union Elections Set for October 18
A dispute is happening inside a Telugu film dancers’ union.
The Film Employees Federation reportedly wants to hold a new election on October 18.
About 600 dancers and choreographers may vote.
They would choose a new president and other leaders.
The Federation says the new group would work under its recognition.
Sumalatha Devi, the current union president, may ask a court to stop the election.
A separate film employees’ body has also issued a non-cooperation directive involving her and Jani Master.
Producers say they will work with unions recognized by the Federation.
The dispute could affect which group officially represents dancers and choreographers.
The Telugu Film Employees Federation reportedly plans dancers’ union elections on October 18.
Around 600 members are expected to elect a president and other office-bearers.
The proposed election follows a non-cooperation directive against Jani Master and Sumalatha Devi.
Sumalatha Devi is reportedly considering court action to seek a stay on the elections.
Producers say they will work with unions recognized by the Federation.
- Who
- The Telugu Film Employees Federation, the Telugu dancers’ union led by Sumalatha Devi, Jani Master, and about 600 dancers and choreographers.
- What
- A proposed election for a new Telugu Film and Television Dancers and Choreographers Association body, alongside a dispute over recognition and cooperation.
- When
- The proposed election is scheduled for October 18; no year is specified.
- Where
- Within the Telugu film industry; the specific election location is not stated.
- Why
- The Federation reportedly seeks a new, recognized body after allegations of indiscipline and a continuing dispute within the dancers’ union.
Federation and Producers’ Position
Existing Union’s Position
Whether elections should proceed
Federation and Producers’ Position
The Federation reportedly plans to hold elections on October 18 and considers itself the apex body authorized to act over alleged rule violations.
Existing Union’s Position
Sumalatha Devi is reportedly preparing to approach the court to seek a stay on the proposed elections.
Recognition of the representative body
Federation and Producers’ Position
The Federation and producers say they will recognize and work with the newly elected body operating under Federation support.
Existing Union’s Position
The existing Sumalatha-led body could lose recognition if the election proceeds, according to sources; the article does not state the union’s formal response to that possibility.
Industry cooperation and work access
Federation and Producers’ Position
The Confederation’s directive could make it difficult for Jani Master and Sumalatha Devi to obtain work, while producers say they deal with Federation-recognized unions.
Existing Union’s Position
The directive and proposed election are part of the dispute affecting the existing dancers’ union and its leadership.
- Proposed election date
- October 18
- Expected voters
- Around 600 members
- Current union president
- Sumalatha Devi
- Non-cooperation directive
- Reportedly issued against Jani Master and Sumalatha Devi by the All-India Film Employees Confederation
- Federation position
- The new body is expected to be endorsed and supported by the Film Employees Federation
- Possible legal response
- Sumalatha Devi is reportedly planning to seek a court stay
- Producer position
- Producers say they will work with the 24 unions recognized by the Federation