Pyre vs Ramayana: AICWA demands probe over 75 per cent show cuts
New Delhi : The release of has sparked a debate about the screen space given to smaller films. Filmmaker Vinod Kapri’s independent film Pyre has reportedly lost nearly 75 per cent of its theatre shows after the big-budget film arrived in cinemas. The issue has now reached the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, with the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) stepping in to support the filmmaker.
The association has written to Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, asking for an investigation into the reduction of Pyre shows. It has also demanded that FIRs be registered against theatre owners and distributors found guilty after the inquiry. The main concern is whether smaller films are getting a fair chance to reach audiences.
AICWA writes to Ashwini Vaishnaw over Pyre show reduction
According to the Hindustan Times report, AICWA president Suresh Shyamlal Gupta wrote to the minister, raising concerns about the way Pyre lost its theatre screens. The film was made on a reported budget of just Rs 2.5 crore. It initially started with around 80 screens, but its reach increased to nearly 400 screens after positive word of mouth from viewers. However, the filmmaker later alleged that the number dropped to fewer than 100 after Ramayana was released.
In its letter, AICWA clarified that it was not against the success of Ramayana. The association acknowledged that big films create employment for actors, technicians and other film workers. However, it believes that the success of a major release should not come at the cost of a smaller film that is already finding an audience. The body has asked the government to introduce a fair screen allocation policy and a grievance redressal system for independent filmmakers.
AICWA demands FIRs and fair screen allocation
The association has made several demands in its letter. These include an impartial inquiry into why Pyre was reportedly reduced from around 400 screens to fewer than 100 despite positive audience feedback. It has also asked the minister to ensure that FIRs are filed against theatre owners and distributors found responsible after the investigation.
Another important demand is to restore as many shows of Pyre as possible while the inquiry is underway. AICWA believes that independent and small-budget films need better support because their makers often struggle to secure theatrical releases. It also pointed to films such as HanuMan to show that smaller productions can find success when audiences get the opportunity to watch them.
What did Vinod Kapri say about Pyre losing shows?
Vinod Kapri had earlier shared his disappointment in a video posted on X. The filmmaker said that Pyre started with a limited release but gradually reached more screens because of audience support. However, he claimed that around 75 per cent of its shows were cut within the first week.
Kapri questioned why theatre owners and distributors needed to reduce screenings of one film to accommodate another. He also said that people were responding emotionally to Pyre and that the team deserved a fair opportunity. While he did not directly name the big film in his video, his statement came soon after the release of Ramayana on November 5.
What is Pyre about?
Directed by National Award winning filmmaker Vinod Kapri, Pyre is a moving story about an elderly couple living in a Himalayan village. The film follows their everyday lives as they continue waiting for their children, who have moved away. It explores loneliness, ageing, family relationships and the emotional struggles of growing old.
Made on a small budget, the film features newcomers and focuses on simple human emotions. Its story and positive response from viewers have helped it attract attention despite its limited release. The film released in theatres across India on October 30.
Bigger issue: Do independent films get a fair chance?
The Pyre controversy has once again raised questions about how theatre screens are distributed in India. Big-budget films naturally need a large number of screens, but independent films also need space to find their audience. When a smaller film starts receiving a positive response, its theatrical run should also be considered.
For now, AICWA wants the government to examine the allegations and take action wherever wrongdoing is established. The issue is not about choosing between two films but about giving every filmmaker a fair opportunity. It remains to be seen how the ministry responds to the association’s demands.
Written By Uditi Sharma!