December 4 proved to be a tense and dramatic day for exhibitors across India as uncertainty loomed over the release of two major films, Dhurandhar and Akhanda 2. While Akhanda 2 was indefinitely postponed due to reported legal complications, Dhurandhar also made headlines after its press screening was first delayed and then canceled. Contrary to rumors circulating online that the makers intentionally canceled the media show, exhibition sources clarified the cause was a technical glitch.
Theatres remained anxious throughout the day as the full film was not delivered until late on December 4. An exhibition insider told Bollywood Hungama, “Usually, content is provided to theatres days in advance. However, for Dhurandhar, only the first half arrived on the evening of December 4.”The source explained, “The second half was delivered early morning on December 5. A few cinemas experienced delays, causing early morning shows to be canceled.
Yet, most early shows began as scheduled. The very first screening in the country happened at PVR The Capital Mall in Nalasopara East near Mumbai at 7:15 AM, likely because the film team downloaded the content early that morning.”Adding to the day’s drama was uncertainty over Dhurandhar’s release in Mumbai’s iconic G7 multiplex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy. A trade source revealed, “Bookings opened on Tuesday, with three shows planned at Gaiety’s 1000-seat auditorium at 12 PM, 4 PM, and 9 PM—likely due to the film’s length.
But bookings were soon suspended. Until 10 PM on Thursday, no bookings had started for Gaiety or any other G7 theatre.”The source continued, “On the morning of December 5, the Dhurandhar distribution team resolved the deadlock. They insisted on shows in both Gaiety and Galaxy. G7 management offered Gaiety, aiming to screen Tere Ishk Mein in Galaxy since that film was performing well. However, the Jio team demanded screenings in both major auditoriums.
Lastly, their request was granted Friday morning.” Despite the hurdles, Dhurandhar managed to release nationwide, ending the early-morning drama on a positive note for exhibitors and audiences alike.
