(1 June 2007 8:58 pm)

MUMBAI: The online movie download space jhas ust got more exciting. Unlike sites like netflix.com which offer direct-to-home video rentals, Jaman.com has decided to differentiate itself by delving into hi-definition downloads of socially driven cinema, produced by India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).

The California based website and NFDC have signed a 30-film online distribution deal wherein films from directors like Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal and Mrinal Sen will be available for download on website.

Jaman's CEO and founder Gaurav Dhillon said, "While excellent films are made all over the world every year, less than one percent of them get traditional distribution in the U.S. Our partnership with NFDC makes the work of India's top directors available to anyone with internet access. These films clearly show that alongside a prolific Bollywood film industry, India has a deep and rich history of cinematic excellence."

The long-term Jaman and NFDC deal will kick off with 30 worldwide premieres that includes titles like Kundan Shah's Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron, Sudhir Mishra's Main Zinda Hoon, Saeed Mirza's Salim Langde Pe Mat Ro, Ketan Mehta's Mirch Masala, Govind Nihalani's Party, Basu Chatterjee's Tok Jhal Misti, Murali Nair's Arimpara amongst others.

The NFDC is the Indian government's primary agency dedicated to promoting excellence in cinema and it has produced over 300 films. Several of these films have won national and international awards.