Although there are ongoing tensions with India and Pakistan and the cancellation of some events, cinema halls are open across India as multiplexes start advance bookings and ‘Raid 2‘ shows a Thursday jump.
Cinema Shutdown Rumours Amid Border Tensions Are False, Say Industry Insiders
After weeks of escalating border tensions with Pakistan following drone strikes on Indian military and civilian locations, there was rising fear about the possibility of cinema halls being ordered to shut down, as they were during the early months of the pandemic; additionally, there was the cancellation of the theatrical release of Bhool Chuk Maaf and the shutdown of IPL matches.
Still, industry sources confirmed that there was no actual order, and shows are mostly being screened across India.
No Government Order: Multiplexes Begin Weekend Advance Bookings
A report stated that a critical meeting took place between cinema hall owners and multiplexes. While there was no public report, the key message was clear: cinemas are not shutting down.
Nitin Datar, the president of the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India (COEAI), guaranteed, “From what I heard, multiplexes have opened advances for the weekend. So, I don’t think so (that cinemas are being shut).”
There are a handful of border-containing cities such as Chandigarh, Bhuj, Amritsar, Bikaner, and Sri Ganganagar, which have specific restrictions on night shows because of their particular proximity and precaution, but besides that, things are operating regularly in the industry.
Kiritbhai T Vaghasia of The Friday Cinema in Surat said, “I sold 50 tickets for a 3:00 pm show of the film Bhootnii. It’s business as usual.”
‘Raid 2’ Thursday Jump Calms Nerves Amid Uncertainty
Despite nationwide jitters, Raid 2 delivered a glimmer of hope. After a noticeable dip on Wednesday — attributed to news coverage of Operation Sindoor — the film bounced back with ₹5.33 crore on Thursday, up from Wednesday’s ₹4.81 crore. The film’s Tuesday earnings had stood at ₹7.45 crore.
With no major competition at the box office this week, trade analysts believe Raid 2 is poised for a robust second weekend and a strong lifetime run.
Industry Hopes to Avoid Pandemic-Like Setbacks
An industry insider candidly stated, “We have barely recovered from pandemic losses. The government knows the damage that another shutdown can cause—jobs, revenues, and public morale. Giving in to panic is exactly what terrorists want.”
The statement resonates deeply across the industry, which is already preparing for a packed next weekend with the arrival of Final Destination: Bloodlines and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning — both expected to bring in a surge in footfalls if stability holds.
Yet, caution remains. Nitin Datar warned, “Public response dips when things get tense. Cinema is not considered essential, and people rush home early. It’s a sensitive sector.”
BoxOfficeWorldwide Verdict
While fear and misinformation gripped parts of the nation, the cinema industry held steady. The success of Raid 2 amid geopolitical tension signals resilience, and with multiplexes taking bookings, the screens remain lit. If stability prevails, Bollywood might just avoid another financial and emotional downturn.
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