A recent controversy has erupted in the Indian film industry regarding the Marathi film Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3, which has been pulled from multiple theaters in Maharashtra just a week after its debut. Ameya Khopkar, the President of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s (MNS) film division, has expressed strong disapproval toward multiplexes for allegedly replacing the film to make room for the Hindi romantic drama Saiyaara, produced by Yash Raj Films.
Speaking to reporters, Khopkar raised concerns about unfair treatment, claiming that despite Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3 receiving a positive response from audiences since its release on July 18, it was quickly dropped from important screenings across the state to favor Saiyaara, which stars Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. “Our film was launched on the same day as Saiyaara, yet even in major areas of Mumbai, there is hardly any space for Marathi films,” he pointed out, highlighting that venues like Plaza Cinema in Dadar allocated all their shows to Saiyaara, leaving no room for his film.
Khopkar warned that while he is holding back from immediate protests, he is ready to act if the situation does not improve. “I am quiet now because I don’t want to create a scene for my films. But next time, if any Marathi film is treated this way, I won’t hesitate to take action,” he stated.
His remarks sparked a swift political backlash. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut expressed his support via social media, asserting that Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3 was marginalized to favor Saiyaara, framing this as a recurring issue that demands more robust advocacy for Marathi cinema.
In response to the situation, members from the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena’s cinema wing gathered outside a PVR multiplex in Bandra, calling for stricter enforcement of Maharashtra’s rules that promote regional films in theaters. The ongoing debate highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and support within the Marathi film industry.
