Nashik: Multiplexes, theatres to open doors from tomorrow

NASHIK: Multiplexes and auditoriums in Nashik city are set to reopen from Friday after the state government’s decision to allow them to resume operations.
The district collector has also cleared that state government’s decision about easing out restrictions would be implemented as it is. The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has already started cleaning its two auditoriums in the city and ensuring the sound system is in place.
While theatres with multiple-screens have already geared up for the reopening from Friday, the single screening theatres have decided not to start operations and wait for a few weeks as their association is fighting with the state and Centre to meet their demands.
“We have already cleaned our multiplexes and we are set to begin from Friday. We have already recruited staff and all of then have completed their vaccination with a second dose,” said an official from the multiplex having 10 screens at three locations in the city.
“We will follow the guidelines set by the government and will reopen our multiplexes with 50% seating capacity. There have been releases of many new films next week and we have already started booking movies. It will be a treat for many during Diwali,” he added.
Vinay Chumbhle, president of single screen theatres owners’ association, said they have decided not to start theatres right now.
“We already have some issues that are being pursued with the state and central governments. We will wait for a few weeks and then take a call on reopening our theatres,” said Chumbhle.
“There is no exit policy and the land is reserved for the theatre only. Hence, we want the government to introduce an exit policy for theatre owners so that we can decide whether to continue with the theatre or build a mall or shopping complex there,” he added.
NMC officials said they have three auditoriums in the city — Kalidas Kala Mandir, Dadasaheb Gaikwad and Paluskar — out of which we are in the process of renovating Paluskar auditorium.
“We are now set to reopen Kalidas and Gaikwad auditoriums from Friday. We are following all the government guidelines related to reopening,” the official said.