Anubhav Sinha slams theatre chains as Kanu Behl’s Agra struggles for screens; says, ‘Someone must invent a new method’

Kanu Behl’s Agra is facing a disappointing setback in India as multiplex chains reportedly deny it adequate show slots in favour of big-budget commercial releases. The situation has sparked strong reactions within the industry. Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha has also expressed anguish over the systemic challenges faced by independent cinema.

Resharing Kanu Behl’s post on X, Anubhav wrote, “It breaks my heart to read your tweets, my friend. I don’t know how I can be of any help. It takes a lot to make a film that sticks out of the box, get a Cannes premiere, get rave reviews, and then you struggle for some screen time at home. Ridiculous is a euphemism. Yes, cinema is a business. But it is art and culture too. I don’t know who, but someone out there must invent a new method. New films will need some time at the BO before the audience develops a liking for it. That time MUST BE GIVEN."

His remarks came after Kanu Behl revealed that Agra was being sidelined by multiplex chains. According to the director, the film has been denied shows under the pretext of prioritising “big blockbusters” and because “small films ‘don’t fit into’ multiplex chain programming.” In his appeal, Kanu urged viewers to intervene, saying, “Update on ‘Agra’, the film: We’re being denied shows because of the so-called ‘big blockbusters’ and because small films ‘don’t fit into’ multiplex chain programming. It’s up to you, the audience, now! Speak up and tag the chains. Say that you want to see the film!"

Actor Manoj Bajpayee also came forward in support of the filmmaker. Responding to Kanu Behl’s concerns, he wrote, “It has been so long fighting this battle, and indie makers and their art often get overlooked in the wider cinema space. Keep at it, Kanu, your effort truly matters. Everyone should come forward and support small, meaningful cinema by asking their theatres to give these films a fair chance."

Also read: Kanu Behl slams multiplex chains for blocking small films as Agra struggles for shows; says, ‘We are only asking for 100 good screens’