Did PVR Inox Prefer Ayushmann Khurrana Over Harshvardhan Rane’s Film?

The Controversy Behind Advance Bookings

The ongoing discussion centers on advance bookings for two upcoming films: Harshvardhan Rane’s Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat and Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna’s Thamma, both slated for release on October 21. According to reports, makers of Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat claim their film is not getting an equitable opportunity in cinemas. PVR INOX, which oversees the distribution for both movies, is at the heart of this controversy.

Sources from India Today alleged that PVR INOX is “colluding with its exhibition wing to block out Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat” while favoring Thamma.

Screen Allocation Dispute

Details hint that Thamma has been allocated more screens and showtimes than Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat. Typically, multiplexes open advance bookings for around four days with one screen per film. However, it appears that PVR INOX made an exception to grant Thamma broader access.

Producer’s Take on the Situation

Anshul Garg, producer of Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, expressed concern over the current state of cinema. He stated, “In an era where widespread reliance on streaming platforms is prevalent, we have chosen the theatrical route. Despite producing four commercially successful songs and a promising film, it is regrettable that Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat isn’t receiving equitable treatment in cinemas.”

Garg added, “The film industry thrives on dreams and passion, and any attempt to limit our audience is highly inappropriate. We hope that fair judgment will prevail and that our film receives a just chance.”

PVR INOX’s Response

Responding to the allegations, Kamal Gianchandani, CEO of PVR INOX, firmly stated that these claims are “not true at all.” He mentioned that PVR is handling only a minor portion of Thamma as a distributor, with major territories managed directly by Maddock. He emphasized that both films are treated based purely on their merits and expressed a desire to see both succeed at the box office.

Overview of the Films

Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat is directed by Milap Zaveri and also features Sonam Bajwa. It tells the story of Vikramaditya and Adaa Randhawa, portrayed by Harshvardhan and Sonam, respectively.

On the other hand, Thamma, produced by Dinesh Vijan, includes Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar. This film follows Ayushmann’s character, Alok, a journalist from Delhi who inadvertently enters a realm filled with vampires, encountering a mysterious character played by Rashmika and a frightening vampire represented by Nawazuddin.