PVR Cinemas’ recent announcement to screen the highly-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between arch-rivals India and Pakistan live in its theatres has triggered a ferocious political and public backlash, reigniting the sensitive debate over sporting ties with Pakistan amid heightened national security concerns.
The multiplex chain promoted the event, scheduled for 8 PM on September 28th, calling it a chance to experience “cricket’s fiercest rivalry” on the big screen. However, this business decision was immediately met with sharp condemnation from leaders of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction.
Raut Questions PVR’s ‘P,’ Thackeray Calls It ‘Disgusting’
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Sanjay Raut launched a scathing attack on the cinema chain on social media platform X, suggesting the “P” in PVR might stand for Pakistan.
He expressed outright outrage, stating that the decision to broadcast a match involving Pakistan was a “direct insult to the families of our martyrs,” and warned the company not to “test our patience.”
Another prominent Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, Aaditya Thackeray, joined the criticism, terming the move as “disgusting.” Thackeray explicitly referenced the recent wounds from the Pahalgam attack and the sacrifices made by the armed forces during Operation Sindoor, arguing that PVR’s decision disrespected both the victims and the military personnel.
National Debate Reignited
The political statements have dramatically amplified the conversation across social media platforms. The debate pits enthusiastic cricket fans, who welcome the immersive stadium-like experience of watching the final, against those who align with the political perspective that such a broadcast is insensitive, given the recent historical and national security context between the two nations.
The ongoing Asia Cup itself has been marred by intense political undertones and on-field controversies, including an earlier “no-handshake” incident involving the Indian team and players being fined by the ICC for politically charged gestures.
As of press time, PVR Cinemas has not issued an official response to the escalating backlash, which highlights the precarious balance corporations must maintain between commercial interests and prevailing national sentiment in politically charged scenarios.