In its latest diktat, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has warned multiplex owners to screen Marathi films or be prepared for an "˜MNS style"™ agitation in the city.
In a protest led by MNS, over 250 members of the Shiv Sena as well as the Raj Thackeray led party gathered at the PVR multiplex in Lower Parel on Monday, claiming that the Marathi film, Bhartiya, was going to be taken off the screens. Maharashtra Navnirman Chitrapat Karmachari Sena (MNCKS), the cine wing of the MNS, warned PVR and other multiplex chains to screen Marathi films during prime time or face the wrath of the party.
"We have given a 24-hour warning to PVR to screen the Marathi film during prime time. If they don"™t do so, we will protest in typical "˜MNS style"™. We have put our demand to other multiplex owners as well," said Amey Khopkar, president of the association. He said they had received a complaint from the makers of the film, who said that the film could be taken off due to the upcoming Bollywood releases.
Gautam Dutta, chief operating office of PVR Cinema, said,"We had never planned to stop the screening of Marathi films. We are open to showing all kinds of films, depending on the audience base we expect. In case of a big film release coming up, our aim will be to maximise viewership."
In the past, Marathi film producers and distributors have alleged that multiplexes do not screen their films frequently or allot prime show timings.
Additional commissioner of police (central region) Pravin Salunkhe said,"A delegation of Shiv Sena and MNS workers and leaders went to the theatre and submitted a letter. Our personnel were present at the spot to ensure that there was no law and order problem."