ADHM makers thank to multiplexes, single theatres for support

With the clearance of ban on 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' release, the producers of the film payed thanks to the single-screens and multiplexes on October 22.

Karan Johar accompanied by Producers' Guild President Mukesh Bhatt met Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis at his home 'Varsha'on October 22 morning where Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, whose party has been opposing the release, was also present.

MNS had threatened to stall the release of the movie as it had Pakistani actor Fawad Khan but has now withdrawn its protest.

"We thank the Producers Guild who have come out in support of our film 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' and also wholeheartedly thank the single screen owners and associations and multiplex owners for supporting our film and standing by us. Let's celebrate Diwali with Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,' Apoorva Mehta, CEO of Dharma Productions, said.

Vijay Singh, CEO of Fox Star Studios, said it is 'heartwarming' to see the film release as per schedule.

"We are extremely thankful to the Guild and the cinema owners who have stood by 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' and have come out and supported us. The film talks about celebrating love this Diwali and we are seeing so much solidarity within our industry," he said.

Mukesh Bhatt, the President of the Producers Guild took a dig at Cinema Owners Exhibitors Association of India, which has decided to stick to its stand to not release the movie in their theatres.

"Some irrelevant body calling themselves as exhibitor association were trying to be in the news by capitalising on the sensitive political scenario. We strongly condemn such acts. It is cheap and cannot be tolerated. 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' is a film about celebrating love this Diwali. It is a perfect film to play in the theatres and it is releasing nationwide on October 28," Bhatt said.

After the resolution, a number of theatre owners came out in support of the movie.

Aditya Chowksey Executive body member of Central Circuit Cine Association (CCA), which represents cinemas in CP-CI-Rajasthan, said they had planned to release the movie in their nearly 50 single screen cinemas and are expecting a good response in advance bookings.

"All single screens and multiplexes are screening ADHM. This is a big film, with big names releasing in a festive period to bring joy to our audiences," said Anil Thadani, owner AA Films.

"There is huge demand for ADHM. It is a romantic entertainer that goes well with the festive mood and the spirit of Diwali. The songs are also huge hits. The audience is definitely looking forward to watch the movie in cinemas," said Alok Tandon, CEO, INOX Leisure Ltd.

Arvind Chapalka, Owner of City Pride Chain also confirmed that the movie will be screened in all their theatres in Pune.