West Bengal government allows cinemas to reopen on 1 October

The West Bengal government has allowed cinema halls to function and cultural programmes such as theatre performances and musical shows to be held, albeit with only up to 50 participants present, from 1 October.

Tweeting the news, chief minister Mamata Banerjee said the go-ahead is subject to adherence to physical distancing norms, wearing of masks and compliance with precautionary protocols.

Mahendra Soni, co-founder and director of SVF Entertainment, which runs the theatre chain SVF Cinemas, hailed the announcement. “We are happy and welcome Didi’s announcement," Soni said. "This is a huge relief for the exhibition industry.”

However, according to him, the reopening has to happen at the national level as it would be difficult to run theatres without new films being released. “I am hoping to receive some kind of announcement from the central government too,” he said.

As far as SVF Cinemas is concerned, Soni said he was awaiting detailed guidelines and safety protocols before deciding on the opening date. "We will open as soon as possible once we have the official notification along with the dos and don’ts," he said.