In a tit for tat situation, the Pakistan Film Exhibitors and Distributors Association had announced to stop the screening of Indian movies in their cinemas. However, it seems Pakistan is not able to cope up with the losses that it incurred with the move.
Despite screening old and new Pakistani movies and even releasing other foreign movies, including Hollywood releases, people have not flocked to the screens. Owing to the losses, the Pakistani film exhibitors and cinema owners may end the “temporary” ban and start screening Indian movies from December 19.
The ban was imposed in the wake of rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the Uri attack in which around 18 Indian soldiers were martyred.
Chairman of the Film Exhibitors Association Zoraish Lashari claims that several investments have been made to establish and revamp cineplexes in the country. Their success hugely depends on whether they would be able to release Indian films.
He also said that they are closely looking forward to Aamir Khan’s ‘Dangal’ which they believe would play a huge part in filling up their losses if they are successful in releasing the film. Discussions are on to try and release ‘Dangal’ in Pakistan.
However, some are still skeptical about releasing Indian movies fearing a backlash from religious groups. They have even asked for protection if they release Indian films.
The decision to ban Indian films had been taken after political parties in Indian, mainly Shiv Sena, protested against screening the work of Pakistani actors amid rising tensions between the two countries along the border. Karan Johar’s ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ had faced massive problems during its release as Pakistani actor Fawad Khan had played a role in the movie.
