Multiplex Association of India writes to Delhi govt over shutting cinemas, Bollywood backs

The film industry was on its way to bouncing back from the Covid-19 impact, but fears over the latest Omicron variant seems to be creating more challenges for the sector.

With the Delhi government shutting down theatres as a part of the 'yellow alert' to contain the spread of the virus, multiplex owners are badly hit.

The Multiplex Association of India has written to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urging him to reconsider the decision and allow cinemas to stay open.

In their letter, the MAI said, shutting down theatres causes 'massive uncertainty', and that it could lead to 'irreparable damage' to the film industry. It added that after the resumption, multiplexes have shown that they can operate well, through the use of ventilation systems and enhanced hygiene protocols.

The letter said, not a single outbreak of COVID-19 anywhere around the world has been traced to a cinema. It sought that the government introduce the double vaccination requirement to enter cinemas like in states like Maharashtra and resort to a 50% capacity for the seatings.

Several Bollywood celebs have also supported the plea of the multiplex owners to the Delhi government. Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon were among the stars who backed their statement.

Posting the statement on their Instagram stories, Varun and Kriti wrote that it was a 'must read.' They urged their fans to spread it, and the government to consider it.

The first film to postpone its release amid the recent outbreak was 'Jersey'. The Shahid Kapoor-starrer was scheduled to release on December 31, but the makers now hope to release it in theatres next year.

Also Watch: Shahid Kapoor's 'Jersey' postponed again due to rise in Covid-19 cases