The new variant of COVID-19, known as Omicron, has taken over Delhi, increasing daily Covid-19 cases. As a result, the government have taken measure to shut down schools, colleges, gyms, small businesses and cinemas.
The shutdown has been costly for many businesses but, it has been devastating for cinema theatres as they were limping back to business. Unlike many other businesses, the theatre business cannot resort to online methods.
Theatres and multiplexes around the country had just resumed operations after a long shutdown due to the second wave. Just two months after reopening, the Omicron variant had set foot in the country, making it difficult for the businesses to function smoothly.
As a result of the shutdown, many films scheduled for the winter release have been postponed. Jersey, starring Shahid Kapoor that had set to release on 31st December, has been moved to a later available date. Rajamouli’s RRR and many other films also face the same issue. Films set for release in January are also going to be postponed as government restrictions seem to be in place till February.
Kamal Gainchandani, who is the President of the Multiplex Association of India, expressed his concern regarding the shutdown. He stated that the state government’s decision of shutting down theatres due to the new variant outbreak will cause unrecoverable damage to the Film Industry of India.
He expressed that since March 2020, the film industry around the world has been struggling to keep its head above the water. The frequent lockdowns, slow reopening and revival of businesses have hurt the theatre business a lot.
When theatres were finally allowed to open, all multiplexes proved that they could operate the business carefully by allowing only 50% seating capacity, proper ventilation systems and regular sanitizing of employees.
Kamal also added that while he understands the necessity to comply with the government orders for the safety of the public. It is also important to consider industries and institutions related to art and film.
He proposed to the government if they would allow the reopening of theatre on certain conditions like the entry for double vaccinated individuals and the return of 50% seat capacitance in the theatre.
Prashant Kulkarni, who is the CMO of Carnival Group, stated that he fully understands the government’s decision and stands by it. He expressed that he does not wish to encounter another wave and hopes to see the current outbreak die soon. Enforcing restrictions is the only way we can get back to normal ways.
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