Pyre loses 75% of shows amid Ramayana wave, director Vinod Kapri raises concern

Filmmaker Vinod Kapri has raised concerns over the reduced number of screenings for his film Pyre, alleging that theatre owners and distributors have been instructed to prioritise one particular film. While he did not name the film, his remarks appear to come amid the release of Ramayana: Rise of a Legend.Kapri shared a video on X where he expressed his disappointment, claiming that Pyre, which initially had a limited release, saw its screenings increase after receiving a positive response from audiences. However, he alleged that a large number of shows were dropped over the last two days, leaving the film with fewer than 100 screenings across the country.In his post, the filmmaker said Pyre began its theatrical run with around 80 shows across 80 screens. Within three to four days, the number reportedly increased to more than 400 shows, following audience support.However, Kapri claimed that at least 75 per cent of these screenings were later removed. He also alleged that theatre owners and distributors told him they had been asked to screen only one specific film, even if other screens were left unoccupied. Calling the situation unfair to both the film and its audience, Kapri added, “THIS IS NOT FAIR. NOT TO #PYRE. NOT TO ITS AUDIENCE.”THIS IS NOT FAIR. NOT TO #PYRE. NOT TO ITS AUDIENCE. https://t.co/FYadN0dQXT— Vinod Kapri (@vinodkapri) November 7, 2026Sharing his concern, he said, “We have been in touch with theatre owners and distributors, and they have informed us that they have been instructed to screen only one specific film in their theatres.” The filmmaker's post has brought attention to the challenges smaller films can face when competing for theatrical screens, particularly during the release of big-budget productions. According to trade website Sacnilk, Pyre has earned Rs 2.23 crore gross in India. Meanhwile, Ramayana: Rise of a Legend, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash, which was released on November 5, is currently running in theatres and has earned 120 crore gross in India.- Ends