After nearly a year-and-a-half closure, the cinema theatres are to open in Maharashtra from October 22.
The theatres will be allowed only 50 percent occupancy owing to the coronavirus situation.
The patrons will be allowed entry only if they are fully vaccinated. The proof of vaccination can be shown via Arogya Setu App, or a certificate, as the case may be applicable.
All movie-goers must follow the covid-appropriate behavior such as wearing masks and keeping a safe distance from others.
Staggered timings will be followed in putting on the shows, and also people’s entry and exit into the halls will be staggered as well, to avoid crowds.
Staff working at the establishments must be fully vaccinated, and their second dose must have been taken two weeks prior to the commencement of their job.
In Kerala, theatres will open up from October 25. Here too, Cinema Halls will be restricted to 50 percent seating capacity.
The patrons will be allowed into the movie halls only if they are fully vaccinated.
Although Kerala reported lesser cases than other states at the outset of the coronavirus pandemic, now the state has reported the highest number for several days in a row.
Other States
In the Telugu-speaking states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, theatres are already open. AP will allow full occupancy from October 14 onwards.
Even in the neighboring Karnataka, 100 percent occupancy is allowed in the movie halls.
Tamil Nadu has its theatres open from late August, with 50 percent occupancy.
In Rajasthan, full occupancy is allowed in the cinema halls, but the patrons have to show proof of having taken at least one dose of vaccine.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the theatres are allowed 25 percent occupancy.