Is Bollywood Cinemas unlikely to Open before October after 4 Months Lockdown?
Usually cinemas across europe and the US may be opening their doors again, but a big screen date with their favorite star remains elusive for the indian audience. Even as the government is easing the restrictions in phases, reopening of theatres is likely to be among the last steps in the 'Unlock India' plan. The theatre business, currently in its fourth month of shutdown, has suffered a blow, with the single screens being the worst hit. Three landmark movie halls Shanthala and Padma in Mysuru, and Maharani in chennai have bitten the dust in the past three months.'
Meanwhile with trade circles suggesting that cinemas will not re-open before october, trade analyst Akshaye rathi worries that "about 250 to 300 single screens may be wiped out". He rues, "There's no support from any quarter, be it from the film industry or the government. By october, the number of theatres downing its shutters may touch 1000-plus." rathi adds that problems will continue to plague the humble single screens even after they resume operations. "The initial expenditure will be way higher than the revenue coming in," says Rathi, adding that they will witness high footfalls only when big-ticket offerings hit the marquee.
Moreover with rent, maintenance charges and staff salaries, the theatre owners' expenses have been rising with no revenue to offset them. Manoj Desai, executive director, Gaiety-Galaxy, notes that the government has offered little relief. "The government should do away with GST. We are paying the property tax, BMC tax and electricity charges. Ideally, these should be excused for the moment."