Vinod Kapri's indie film Pyre lost most of its screens, dropping from nearly 400 to fewer than 100, right after Ramayana hit theaters.
The All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has stepped in, asking the government to look into possible unfair practices.
Even though audiences liked Pyre, this sharp cut highlights how tough it is for smaller films to stand out against big-budget releases.
Gupta, Kapri urge fair screen distribution
AICWA President Suresh Shyamlal Gupta urged that small movies like Pyre deserve a fair shot, saying job-creating blockbusters shouldn't push out independent films.
Kapri echoed this, sharing that "If you have spent a lot of money, then we have spent our soul in making a film. We deserve a fair chance," and it's tough to see them sidelined.
Both are calling for more balanced screen distribution so indie cinema can survive.