Several Bollywood Producers , actors and the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) requested the centre to open the cinema halls, which have remained shut amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The twitter handle of the Multiplex Association of India wrote , “Support Movie Theatres”—that the cinema industry is not only an inherent part of the country’s culture but also an integral part of the economy, “supporting millions of livelihoods.” It said,”Most countries across the world have allowed cinemas to operate. We request the Government Of India to allow us to operate as well. We are committed to offering a safe and hygienic cinema experience.” And further added, “If aviation, metro, malls, wellness and restaurants can be allowed to operate, the cinema industry too deserves a chance.”
Several producers too come forward to support the hashtag, Support Movie Theatres. Producer Boney Kapoor whose film Maidaan was stalled tweeted,”#SupportMovieTheatres #SaveCinemas.”
Actor Pravin Dabas said, . “We need to get the economy going. Movie halls are a big part of that, they are committed to giving a safe environment to the filmgoers. Let’s open them before it’s too late,”
While Abhimanyu Dassani whose film Nikamma is scheduled to be released this year tweeted, “Let’s make it safe enough for the public. Please reopen theatres and bring that magic back to life,”
Everyone urged that after the lockdown from 25 march, the govt has started unlocking in a phase-wise manner from June with opening up of domestic travel, offices, markets, shopping complexes, etc in non-containment zones. It should give the permissions of cinema chains to operate. The Multiplex industry employs over 2,00,000 people who are the backbone of the film industry.
