This theater in Hyderabad is not screening Salaar and Dunki. Here's why

Hyderabad: As the calendar flips to December 21 and 22, movie enthusiasts find themselves on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the release of two highly anticipated films: 'Dunki' and 'Salaar.' The simultaneous release of these cinematic spectacles has created a buzz of excitement among fans, with theaters in Hyderabad gearing up for the much-anticipated screenings.

One of the city's iconic theaters, Sudarshan 35MM, known for its vibrant atmosphere during film releases, is taking a unique approach. While most theaters are preparing for the grand releases of 'Dunki' and 'Salaar,' Sudarshan 35MM has decided to extend its run of 'Hi Nanna' until December 28, defying the trend and offering a different cinematic experience.

For fans of Prabhas eagerly checking for tickets at Sudarshan 35MM, a surprise awaited them – the absence of 'Salaar' screenings. This unexpected turn left fans curious and sparked conversations about the theater's decision to continue with 'Hi Nanna' while the city buzzes with anticipation for the latest releases.

Sudarshan 35MM holds a special place in the hearts of moviegoers, providing a unique and lively atmosphere. The theater becomes a hub of excitement as fans gather, filling the air with enthusiastic whistles, lively shouts, and spontaneous dance moves. The decision to stick with 'Hi Nanna' has left fans wondering about the strategy behind it, especially when the city is abuzz with discussions about 'Dunki' and 'Salaar.'

Meanwhile, the advance bookings for 'Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire' are witnessing a tremendous response, with tickets selling like hotcakes. Many theaters in Hyderabad have already reported sold-out shows for the first day, indicating the massive popularity and anticipation surrounding the film.

As the release dates draw near, Hyderabad's cinema enthusiasts are in for a cinematic clash between 'Dunki' and 'Salaar,' each offering a unique experience. Whether it's the traditional charm of Sudarshan 35MM with 'Hi Nanna' or the excitement surrounding the sold-out shows of 'Salaar,' December promises to be a thrilling month for film enthusiasts in the city. The battle at the box office is about to unfold, and fans are gearing up for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Movie not to be released in certain Mumbai Theaters

The makers of "Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire" on Wednesday said they won't screen their film in PVR INOX and Miraj Cinemas theatres in the south because the multiplex chains are favouring Shah Rukh Khan's "Dunki" over the Prabhas-starrer. "Dunki", presented by JIO Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment and Rajkumar Hirani Films, will hit the screens on Thursday, a day before Hombale Films' "Salaar".

While PVR INOX was unavailable for comment, Miraj Cinemas declined to comment on the matter right now.

A spokesperson for Hombale Films said PVR INOX and Miraj Cinemas had promised the banner that both "Salaar" and "Dunki" would get "equal showcasing", a promise they are not honouring.

"Because of unfair showcasing to 'Salaar', we will not be releasing in PVR INOX, MIRAJ in southern states. We have been discussing it with them for the last two days. "They have opened all shows/screens for 'Dunki' alone which was against what they had agreed. They had agreed that they would give equal showcasing when discussed but now they are not doing so," the spokesperson for the production house said in a statement.

Hashtags like #BoycottPVRInox and #BoycottPvrAjayBijli also started trending on X.

Set in the fictional city of Khansaar, "Salaar" revolves around two friends Deva and Vardha, played by Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, who end up becoming arch rivals. Directed by Prashanth Neel, the film will be released in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam and Hindi.

"Dunki", a comedy drama based on an illegal immigration technique 'donkey flight', is directed by Rajkumar Hirani.