Anurag Kashyap Criticizes Indian Multiplexes Over Screen Allocation

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap criticized Indian multiplexes for providing limited screens and poor showtimes to smaller Indian films [1, 2].

This dispute highlights a growing tension between independent creators and cinema chains that prioritize immediate revenue over artistic diversity. Kashyap said this systemic preference threatens the long-term growth of Indian cinema by stifling word-of-mouth projects in favor of high-budget event movies [3, 4].

Kashyap specifically pointed to the distribution of his film “Bandar” and Imtiaz Ali’s “Main Vaapas Aaunga” [1, 2]. He said that theaters are effectively killing these films by favoring big-budget Indian releases such as “Dhurandhar” and Hollywood titles like “Obsession” [1, 2].

Reports indicate that “Bandar” received screenings starting after 1 p.m. across many multiplexes ^[5]. While some reports suggest the film received almost no shows ^[2], others note these specific afternoon time slots amidst stiff competition ^[5].

Kashyap expressed frustration with the industry's reliance on expensive spectacles. "For every Dhurandhar, five expensive films will bomb," he said ^[2]. He questioned why Hollywood films like “Obsession” receive better show timings than domestic Indian movies ^[3].

The filmmaker also noted a disconnect between theatrical support and later digital consumption. "I get upset when fans praise my films years later on OTT, they never supported them in theatres," Kashyap said ^[1].

This pattern of allocation creates a cycle where smaller films struggle to find an audience despite potential critical success. By limiting visibility, multiplexes may be prioritizing short-term gains from established franchises over the development of new cinematic voices [3, 4].