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You can watch Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan, among other films, for just Rs 99 in theatre on October 13. And the reason is a tradition established by multiplexes last year as the film industries dealt with empty theatres and films bombing at the box office post-pandemic. It might have started as a marketing gimmick to tide over the low phase but it guarantees big savings for the cinemagoer.
Major multiplex chains in India have come together to celebrate National Cinema Day, and it began last year with substantial reductions in ticket prices. But what led competing multiplex chains to unite for National Cinema Day, and what’s the reason behind its celebration? And most importantly, why is the date significant for you. We’ve got the answers, just read on.
What is National Cinema Day and why is it celebrated?
National Cinema Day was initially conceived by the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) in 2022. The MAI initiated National Cinema Day to commemorate the reopening of cinema halls post the Covid-19 pandemic. The association made a decision to offer significant discounts on movie tickets on this day, encouraging moviegoers to support cinema hall owners, who suffered huge losses during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Another key reason to celebrate National Cinema Day is to counter the competition posed by the rise of OTT platforms, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s an attempt by cinema hall owners to rekindle the magic of the big screen and applaud the success of recent blockbuster films like Jawan, Gadar 2, and OMG 2, which played a pivotal role in bringing audiences back to the theatres.
This year, National Cinema Day will unfold across more than 4000 participating screens, including renowned cinemas such as PVR, Inox, Cinepolis, Miraj, City Pride, Asian, Mikta A2, Movie Time, Wave, M2K and Delite among others.
What is MAI?
The MAI was established in 2002 under the umbrella of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) by leading cinema operators. MAI represents more than 11 cinema chains, operating over 500 multiplexes across the country, encompassing around 2500+ screens. In simpler terms, MAI represents approximately 75% of the multiplex industry in India.
When is National Cinema Day celebrated?
Multiplex owners haven’t pinned down a fixed date for National Cinema Day. After a few date changes, it was observed on September 23 last year when tickets were available at a discounted rate of Rs 75. It was a massive success, registering the highest-ever single-day admissions of 6.5 million. This year, it is being held on October 13.
What’s in it for you?
Coming to the most important point of this article: What’s in it for you, and why should you mark National Cinema Day on your calendar every year? This year, MAI has decided to offer movie tickets for all films at the unbeatable price of Rs 99 on October 13. To rain on your parade a little, this Rs 99 doesn’t include additional charges (convenience fee + GST) levied upon a ticket purchase. Also, this offer isn’t applicable on premium formats like IMAX, 4DX, or even recliner seats. It is a Pan-India offer, but excludes states like Andhra Pradesh, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Telangana.
That being said, you can enjoy recent blockbusters like Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan, Fukrey 3 and Akshay Kumar’s Mission Raniganj at this minimal cost. In a recent tweet, PVR even announced that food and beverages will be available starting at just Rs 99. It’s important to mention that this offer is applicable in selected cities and cinemas.
Dhak Dhak and Guthlee Ladoo to benefit from National Cinema Day
Ratna Pathak Shah, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Dia Mirza, and Sanjana Sanghi’s upcoming film, Dhak Dhak, is set to hit theatres on October 13 and will likely receive a boost from the reduced ticket prices offered on National Cinema Day. Additionally, Sanjay Mishra’s Guthlee Ladoo, which sheds light on the prevailing issue of caste discrimination in the country, is also poised to benefit from this special occasion. In addition to these Hindi films, Hollywood flicks such as Paw Patrol and Dumb Money are expected to witness a surge in business on National Cinema Day.
You can conveniently book your tickets online through platforms such as BookMyShow or the official websites of cinema chains.
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