Multiplex staff protest against Maharashtra government’s decision to delay reopening of cinemas

Employees of multiplexes in Mumbai and Pune are protesting today against the Maharashtra government's decision to not allow cinema halls in the state to reopen just yet.

The Multiplex Association of India (MAI) had already expressed its displeasure at the decision on 3 August when the government issued its latest COVID-19 guidelines, allowing restaurants, gymnasia and pubs to reopen with limited capacity while asking malls and theatres to remain shut until further orders.

As per Komal Nahta’s publication Film Information, the places where protests are being held today are Infiniti mall at Andheri (West) and Malad; Phoenix Market City at Kurla (West); R-City mall at Ghatkopar (West) and Thane; Growels 101 at Kandivali; Inorbit mall at Malad (West); Seawoods Grand Central at Nerul; Orion mall at Panvel; Viviana mall and Korum mall in Thane; Kurla Market City, Viman Nagar, Pune; Westend mall, Aundh, Pune; and Elpro City Square, Pimpri-Chinchwad.

A joint press conference will also be held today by office-bearers of the MAI, the Shopping Centres Association of India and the Retailers Association of India in Khar, Mumbai. MAI president Kamal Gianchandani will represent the body at the meeting.

Reacting to the state government’s decision to not allow cinemas to reopen, the MAI had tweeted on 3 August, “Government of Maharashtra’s decision to keep cinemas closed is hugely disappointing news for the entire film industry. This comes at a crucial time when the industry has received permission to reopen from all major states, and is trying to recover from the devastating pandemic.”