Vinod Kapri’s latest film, Pyre, has received appreciation from critics and audiences. However, despite the positive response, the film is reportedly facing difficulties in securing screens across the country. Earlier this week, the filmmaker raised concerns over a significant reduction in the film’s theatrical shows, alleging that its screen count had dropped by nearly 75 per cent following the release of Ramayana. He also appealed to theatre owners to reconsider their decision, pointing out that Pyre had been attracting audiences and playing to packed houses.
Now, the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has extended its support to Kapri and taken up the matter with Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The association has written to the minister, seeking an investigation into the alleged reduction in Pyre’s screen count and calling for reforms in the existing film distribution system.
The letter, addressed to Vaishnaw, has been signed by AICWA president Suresh Shyamlal Gupta. Highlighting the film’s journey, Gupta stated that Pyre, which was reportedly made on a modest budget of ₹2.5 crore, initially released across 80 screens before expanding to approximately 400 screens on the strength of positive word of mouth.
However, according to the association, the film’s theatrical presence subsequently dropped to fewer than 100 screens despite receiving a favourable audience response. The AICWA has raised concerns over the way smaller films are accommodated in theatres when major big-budget releases arrive.
“Small Films, Big Dreams: Give Them Screens, Give Them a Chance!” Vinod Kapri’s Pyre, made on just ₹2.5 crore, grew from 80 to about 400 screens on audience love alone. Then, as Mr. Kapri alleges, its shows were cut by nearly 75% to make room for a big-budget release. We do not oppose big films. Big films give Indian cinema its scale, but small films give it its future. Every big name once started small. AICWA President Er Suresh Shyamlal Gupta has written to Hon’ble Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, demanding: ✅ A Fair Screen Allocation Policy for Indian Cinema ✅ An impartial inquiry into the cutting of Pyre’s shows ✅ Maximum screens and shows for Pyre ✅ FIR against those found guilty This system must end, or small dreams will end with it. | #Pyre | #VinodKapri | #SmallFilms |#FairScreenAllocation | #IndianCinema |#AICWA | #AllIndianCineWorkersAssociation | | @AshwiniVaishnaw | @MIB_India | @vinodkapri | @ANI | @PTI_News | @ians_india | @sureshsgupta |
— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@aicwaofficial) November 11, 2026
In his letter, Gupta clarified that the association does not oppose Ramayana or its theatrical success. He acknowledged that the large-scale production has generated employment for hundreds of workers, technicians, junior artistes, and other professionals across the film industry. He also expressed hope that the film performs well commercially, ensuring that producers earn profits and workers receive their payments on time.
Also Read: Ramayana South India Collections: Here’s How Much Ranbir Kapoor and Yash’s Film Has Minted
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: filmfare.com
