Not expecting Ludo to hit theatres anytime soon: Anurag Basu

Director Anurag Basu has revealed that his upcoming film, Ludo, might find it difficult to release in theatres anytime soon. In a quote to the news agency Press Trust of India, the director revealed that the lockdown initiated to prevent the coronavirus pandemic has caused serious problems to the film's release schedule. 

In the quote, Basu said, "We were all ready and geared up for the 24 April release. Looking at the current scenario, I'm not expecting Ludo to hit the theatres soon. As soon as we decide on our date, we will launch our trailer. Earlier, we were supposed to launch it with the release of Sooryavashi."

An ensemble drama, Ludo follows the story of four couples in a city, struggling with diverse issues. The film was initially set to release on 21 February before being pushed to 13 March 2020. 

However, the extension of the lockdown in Maharashtra and several other states means that the film might find it difficult to get into theatres soon. The director added that he hoped all producers worked together to ensure a smooth release for every film post the lockdown. "If we are together, we can manage," he said. 

The director also added that audiences might be hesitant to return to theatres once the lockdown is lifted. 

The lockdown, in place since 25 March, has caused the delay and postponement of several films, including heavyweights like, Sooryavanshi and 83. In addition, the pandemic has also forced the government to shut down all shooting and production work resulting in severe financial loss  for daily-wage earners in the film industry. 

Speaking about the crew members, Basu said, "My heart goes out to the daily-wage workers, who make for 75 percent in any film unit, as they will be hit the most with all the shoots being stalled."

As of today, the lockdown in Maharashtra has been extended till 30 April.