In pics: Exhibitors disappointed as cinema shutdown continues in Unlock 3.0

The government's decision not to open multiplexes in Unlock 3.0 will impact millions of livelihoods dependent on the sector, industry body MAI said

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Multiplex Association of India has issued a statement expressing disappointment over the fact that cinemas will not be allowed to reopen as part of Unlock 3.0.

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Sources in the cinema industry said the government had assured them that it would consider their plea sympathetically. They termed it media speculation that the government might allow cinemas to reopen with 25 per cent occupancy, and said they were not informed about this. Cinema hall owners intend to continue to impress upon the government to allow opening with 50 per cent occupancy.

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"The government's decision is against our expectations and will impact millions of livelihoods dependent on the industry. We have been urging the government all along and continuing to engage with the relevant authorities with our plea to allow the cinemas to operate," MAI said.

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"We are extremely disappointed with the Unlock 3.0 announcement to keep cinemas under continued lockdown," MAI Member Alok Tandon said.

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From a gross revenue of Rs 11,500 crore in 2019 at the box office, this financial year has been a complete washout.